JACKSON, Tenn. — Delta State men’s basketball earned a gritty Gulf South Conference road victory Wednesday night, defeating Union University 97–90 in double overtime at Fred DeLay Gymnasium.
The Statesmen led for more than 32 minutes of the game and made key plays in both extra periods to secure the win. Delta State (9–13, 6–11 GSC) placed four players in double figures, led by Je’Marion Westbrook, who scored 29 points, grabbed seven rebounds, and shot 11-of-13 from the free-throw line.
Westbrook scored repeatedly in late-clock situations, including a string of free throws in the second overtime that helped Delta State pull away. DaCory Porter logged a team-high 48 minutes, finishing with 26 points and eight rebounds. Brendan Braddix added 21 points on 8-of-13 shooting, while Bryce Clayton contributed 10 points. Phillip Hughes led inside with 10 rebounds.
Delta State built a 17-point lead early in the second half, but Union responded with a strong shooting stretch to force overtime. The Bulldogs tied the game late in regulation behind Terrence Ringo Jr., who posted 16 points and 16 rebounds.
Union briefly led by five points in the first overtime, but Delta State responded with a 7–2 run to extend the game. The Statesmen controlled the second overtime, outscoring Union 19–12 and making 11 free throws in the final period.
Delta State shot 45.6% from the field, went 27-of-37 at the free-throw line, and held a rebounding advantage, 47–43. The team also enjoyed a significant time-with-the-lead advantage, 32:56 to 9:26. The Statesmen will continue their push for postseason success with a two-game home stand starting Thursday at 7:30 p.m. against Valdosta State University at Walter Sillers Coliseum.
