AMERICUS, Ga. – The Georgia Southwestern State University men's basketball team turned in its sharpest shooting performance of the season Saturday afternoon, knocking down 16 three-pointers to tie the single-game program record, in an 89-55 nonconference victory over Southern Wesleyan University in the Storm Dome.
The Hurricanes led by eight at the break before erupting for 53 second-half points, stretching the margin to as many as 37 and cruising to their ninth win of the season.
Reaves Leads the Way — Again
For the second straight game,
Amir Reaves led all scorers with 23 points, continuing his strong stretch of play. The newcomer finished 8 of 14 from the field and drilled a season-high three 3-pointers, while also going a perfect 4-for-4 from the free throw line.
Reaves sparked multiple runs in the second half, scoring in transition and from deep as Georgia Southwestern steadily pulled away.
Second-Half Surge Breaks It Open
After shooting 41 percent in the opening half, the Hurricanes found another gear after intermission. GSW shot nearly 60 percent from the floor in the second half and connected on 12 of its 19 three-pointers over the final 20 minutes.
Keshawn Brown Jr. provided a major boost off the bench, pouring in 15 points while knocking down five three-pointers.
Rafael Rubel added nine points and three triples, while
Abrahm Driver chipped in seven points in limited minutes.
Balance and Ball Movement on Display
Georgia Southwestern's depth was on full display as nine different Hurricanes scored.
Deonte Williams and
Markel Freeman each finished with 11 points, with Williams adding five assists to help facilitate the offense.
The Hurricanes totaled 19 assists on 33 made field goals and outscored Southern Wesleyan 33-16 in bench points while also holding a 16-7 edge in fast-break scoring.
Rare Meeting Between Programs as NCAA Schools
Saturday's contest marked just the second all-time meeting between the programs during Georgia Southwestern's NCAA era (starting in 2006-07). The previous matchup came in 2014 on a neutral floor. The schools played each other regularly as NAIA members, most recently teams in the Southern States Athletic Conference dating back to 1999.
Next Up
With the win, the Hurricanes improved to 9-3 overall as they closed out nonconference play this season. GSW will enjoy a holiday break before returning to action on Saturday, January 3, to host Georgia College & State University at 7:45 p.m.
