USC Aiken Men Secure Narrow Win Against Georgia College, Women Struggle

News Summary

In a thrilling matchup, the USC Aiken men’s basketball team claimed a narrow 71-68 victory over Georgia College, improving their record to 8-4 overall. Rhyjon Blackwell’s standout performance with 27 points helped the Pacers battle back from an early deficit. Meanwhile, the women’s team faced difficulties, falling 60-46 to the same opponent, dropping their record to 3-9. Both teams are set to play against Flagler soon.

USC Aiken’s Men Celebrate Narrow Victory While Women Fall to Georgia College

In the sunny town of Aiken, the air was buzzing with excitement at the Convocation Center as the USC Aiken men’s basketball team snagged a thrilling 71-68 victory over Georgia College. This hard-fought win gives the Pacers a solid boost, bringing their overall record to 8-4 and evening their Peach Belt Conference (PBC) standing to 1-1.

The game had its ups and downs, with the Pacers initially trailing behind Georgia College. They found themselves in a tough spot, down 13-4 early and struggling to catch up as the deficit grew to an alarming 11 points (30-19). But the Pacers weren’t about to let this one slip through their fingers.

With sheer determination, the team rallied together to tie the game at 55-55 with just over five minutes left on the clock. Leading the charge was Rhyjon Blackwell, who demonstrated incredible skill and poise on the court, finishing the match with an impressive 27 points, coupled with seven rebounds and three steals. His clutch free throws in the closing moments proved to be the difference-maker that sealed the victory for the Pacers.

Other players who made notable contributions included Simeon German, who picked up 12 points and nearly achieved a double-double with nine rebounds while also showcasing his defensive prowess with three blocked shots. Jalen McCoy added 11 points, seven rebounds, and two blocks, and Davion Cunningham was a powerful presence as he rounded out the score with 10 points and nine rebounds. Other contributions came from Dwight Canady, Jr. with five points, along with Cam Perkins, Mason Grant, and Kaleb Siler, each adding two points to the scoreboard.

It’s worth noting that the Pacers faced challenges shooting-wise, hitting only 29% from the floor with 19 of 67 attempts. However, they shone at the free-throw line, converting 75% of their shots with 28 of 37 successful attempts. The team can now look forward to their next match against Flagler on Wednesday at 5:30 PM.

USC Aiken Women’s Team Struggles Against Georgia College

60-46 loss to the same Georgia College. Unfortunately, this defeat pushes the women’s record down to 3-9 overall and 0-2 in conference play.

Even though the outcome wasn’t in their favor, the Pacers showed moments of promise. Riley Simmons ignited hope for the team with an old-fashioned three-point play early in the game. Players like Serena Baker and Paris Webster fought valiantly to keep the game close, but Georgia College continually pressed forward.

For a moment, it seemed that momentum was swinging USC Aiken’s way as they held a lead briefly in the third quarter. But they struggled to maintain that advantage and ultimately couldn’t keep up with Georgia College’s offense.

Leading the scoring for the women’s team was Rhiannon Saller, racking up 11 points and showcasing her defensive skills with five blocks. Kendall Parker and Paris Webster each contributed nine points, while Simmons helped facilitate plays with eight points and a team-leading five assists. Despite managing an impressive tally of 44 rebounds, the Pacers shot only 31% from the field, making just 18 of 58 attempts.

The USC Aiken women’s team has a chance to regroup as they prepare to face Flagler on Wednesday, with tip-off scheduled for 2:30 PM. It’s going to be a busy week for both teams as they continue to strive for success in their respective matches.