Lee edged Mississippi College 81-74 Saturday at Walker Arena in Cleveland, Tennessee. The Flames hit 10 three-pointers to help secure the victory, according to game statistics.
Lee took an early lead in the first half, highlighted by a three-pointer from Tylon Chatman at the 17:47 mark, assisted by Tim Vaughn. Mississippi College responded with a layup and free throw from Josh Holman, briefly taking the lead. However, Zach Gray hit a three-pointer with 7:06 remaining to extend Lee’s advantage. The first half ended with Lee leading 37-32 after Phil Nelson made two free throws with five seconds remaining.
Lee maintained its lead throughout the second half, outscoring Mississippi College 44-42. Willie Walton sparked the Flames early with a block and a three-pointer, pushing the lead to 44-32 at 17:19. DeMarcus Powe answered for the Choctaws with a three and a layup, narrowing the gap. Lee’s Dayveun Anderson contributed with consistent scoring, including a layup at 7:26 to help preserve the lead.
Despite a late push from Mississippi College, capped by Powe’s fast-break layup with 33 seconds remaining, Lee’s free-throw shooting down the stretch secured the win. The Flames finished with 10 three-pointers, aiding their effort.
Individual leaders for Mississippi College included Powe with 28 points on 10 of 17 shooting, along with seven rebounds and seven three-pointers. Holman added 15 points and seven rebounds, while Phil Nelson contributed 15 points, 11 rebounds, and seven assists. The Choctaws will next face Delta State in Cleveland, Mississippi, on Thursday, Feb. 26, at 4 p.m., according to the team’s schedule.
