Mississippi College’s men’s basketball season ends with loss at Delta State

Cleveland, Miss. — Mississippi College’s men’s basketball season concluded Saturday night with an 85-77 loss against Delta State at Walter Sillers Coliseum. The Choctaws finished with a 10-18 overall record and a 7-15 mark in Gulf South Conference play.

Mississippi College led in points in the paint and forced 11 turnovers but struggled to contain Delta State’s three-point shooting. The Statesmen made 14 three-pointers in the game, which proved decisive. The first half featured multiple lead changes, with both teams exchanging baskets and momentum.

Avaughn Johnson scored the first points for the Choctaws with a layup, but Delta State responded with a three-pointer from Je’Marion Westbrook at the 18:30 mark. Phillip Hughes contributed with several three-pointers, helping the Statesmen maintain a slim advantage. DeMarcus Powe kept MC close with late first-half baskets, including a layup in the final seconds to cut the deficit to five. Delta State led 38-33 at halftime.

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In the second half, Phil Nelson opened with a jumper to bring the Choctaws within three. Westbrook responded with another three, and Johnson added a layup at 14:21 to make it a six-point game. Despite efforts to rally, Mississippi College couldn’t slow down Delta State, which made key free throws down the stretch to secure the win. The Statesmen’s balanced scoring and free-throw efficiency were critical in sealing the victory.

DeMarcus Powe led Mississippi College with 27 points, making 11 field goals and three three-pointers. Johnson added 15 points, eight rebounds and two steals. Nelson scored 18 points with eight baskets and two rebounds. Tremaine Dixon contributed six points, three assists and four rebounds. With the loss, the Choctaws finished their season with a 10-18 overall record.

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