Jackson State Edges Mississippi Valley State in Free Throw-Fueled Victory

Jackson, Mississippi — Jackson State University defeated Mississippi Valley State 85-77 in a men’s college basketball game at Lee E. Williams Athletics & Assembly Center. The Tigers made 50 free throws on 50 attempts to secure the victory, despite the Delta Devils shooting 51.2% from the field and 50% from three-point range, according to box scores provided by the schools.

Mississippi Valley State, which fell to 3-29 overall and 2-16 in Southwestern Athletic Conference play, was led by Michael James, who scored 22 points and made six of nine shots. James also sank all seven free throws he attempted and handed out four assists in all but one game this season. Lamont Sams returned from nearly two months away from the court and contributed eight points and four assists off the bench. Patrick Punch added 17 points, hitting four of six field goals and four of five three-pointers, along with five free throws.

The Tigers improved to 11-20 overall and 10-8 in the SWAC, maintaining their winning streak at seven games. Samuel Murray grabbed a game-high eight rebounds, while Daniel Mayfield scored 14 points. George Ivory III, coaching his team for the first time this season, scored five points in eight minutes of action.

The Delta Devils will enter the SWAC tournament as the No. 12 seed and will face the No. 9 seed in the first round at 7:30 p.m. Monday. Mississippi Valley State’s next game will be in the postseason, with opponents yet to be determined. Fans can follow the team on social media platforms including Twitter/X and Instagram.

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