Barnett Leads with Seven Assists as Mississippi Valley Falls to Grambling State

GRAMBLING, La. — Mississippi Valley State University’s men’s basketball team recorded its highest number of steals (12) and forced turnovers (20) in an NCAA Division I game this season, but fell to Grambling State 83-62 at the Frederick C. Hobdy Assembly Center.

The Delta Devils, who are 2-27 overall and 1-14 in the Southwestern Athletic Conference, were unable to overcome the Tigers’ home-court advantage. Grambling State improved to 12-15 overall and 6-8 in conference play, extending its winning streak against Mississippi Valley to five games. The teams’ series since 1983-84 stands at 52-38 in favor of the Delta Devils.

Despite the loss, Mississippi Valley State had several standout individual performances. Michael James, typically not known for rebounding, led the team with a career-high eight rebounds and scored 19 points, adding four assists. Xzayvion Childress scored 12 points and tied for the team lead with three steals. Patrick Punch contributed nine points and three steals, while Daniel Mayfield added 11 points and five rebounds.

X’Zaevion Barnett led the team with a season-high seven assists, serving as a key playmaker for the Delta Devils. Mississippi Valley State will aim to close the month on a positive note when it travels to UAPB for a 5 p.m. game Saturday against the Golden Lions.

The team encourages fans to follow their progress on social media, including Twitter/X and Instagram, at @MSValleyMBB and @MVSUDevilSports, respectively.

Source: Original Article