Mississippi College edges Christian Brothers 61-60 in men’s basketball

MEMPHIS, Tenn. — Mississippi College edged Christian Brothers University 61-60 Tuesday at Canale Arena, improving to 10-13 overall and 7-10 in Gulf South Conference play, according to school officials.

The Choctaws dominated inside, scoring 46 points in the paint. Christian Brothers took an early lead, with Marquis Gill hitting a fast-break jumper at 19:01. Mississippi College responded with back-to-back baskets from Phil Nelson, tying the game at 10-10 with 13:19 remaining in the first half.

Nelson continued to lead the visitors’ offense, hitting a three-pointer assisted by Avaughn Johnson at 12:39 to give the Choctaws a brief lead. Christian Brothers regained control with a three from Iman Kheirati at 9:52, then Marquis Gill hit a late three assisted by Jabari Phillip Jr. to give the home team a 27-21 advantage at halftime.

Mississippi College rallied in the second half to take the lead. Josh Holman scored multiple crucial layups, including one at 1:42 to retake the lead for the visitors. Christian Brothers responded with a layup by Bennett Briles with 23 seconds remaining, putting the Bucs ahead by one.

However, Nelson drove to the basket and made a layup with four seconds left to secure the victory for the Blue and Gold. The Bucs led the game in fast-break points with nine, while the visitors scored 30 points in the paint.

Holman finished with 20 points and eight rebounds, shooting 8-for-15 from the field. Nelson scored 21 points on 10-of-12 shooting, with three steals and five assists. Johnson added eight points, 10 rebounds, and two steals for Mississippi College.

Next, the Blue and Gold will host West Florida on Thursday, Feb. 12, at 7:30 p.m. CT at A.E. Wood Coliseum in Clinton, Mississippi, according to the school’s schedule.

Source: Original Article