Delta State Falls to Mississippi College 69-65 in GSC Game

CLINTON, Miss. — The Delta State University men’s basketball team fell 69-65 to Mississippi College on Saturday afternoon in Gulf South Conference play at A.E. Wood Coliseum.

The Statesmen struggled early, as the Choctaws shot 40% in the first half and built a 39-23 lead by halftime. Delta State had difficulty scoring consistently in the opening 20 minutes but maintained composure and rallied after the break.

In the second half, Delta State outscored Mississippi College 42-30, using strong interior play and timely perimeter shooting. The Statesmen tied the game at 56-56 with just over five minutes remaining and briefly led 63-61 late. However, the Choctaws responded with key second-chance points and clutch free throws to secure the victory.

DaCory Porter led Delta State with 14 points — all in the second half — and added six rebounds and two assists. Je’Marion Westbrook finished with 12 points and seven rebounds, while Samuel Whitmer chipped in 11 points. Bryce Clayton and Phillip Hughes each scored nine points, giving the team five players in double figures.

Delta State edged Mississippi College in rebounding, 46-45, and scored 24 points in the paint. However, shooting percentages made the difference, with the Statesmen going 35.4% from the floor and 23.7% from three-point range. The Choctaws converted 17 of 26 free throws.

With the loss, Delta State drops to 7-9 overall and 4-7 in conference play. The team will look to build on its second-half momentum next week when it visits Christian Brothers University in Memphis on Thursday.

Source: Original Article