Clinton, MS – Mississippi College overcame a strong challenge from Central State (OH) to secure a 73-65 victory in the season opener for both teams at A.E. Wood Coliseum on Saturday evening. The Choctaws (1-0) were led by senior guard Tyshun Briscoe, who scored 21 points and added six assists in a standout performance.

Despite trailing by as many as 10 points in the second half, Central State (0-1) fought valiantly but could not overcome Mississippi College's offensive balance and clutch free-throw shooting down the stretch. The Marauders were paced by Brandon Scott, who scored 20 points and grabbed six rebounds.

The first half saw both teams exchanging leads, with neither able to gain a commanding advantage. Mississippi College shot 44% from the field in the opening period and took a 37-32 lead into the locker room, thanks in part to 57.1% shooting from beyond the arc (4-of-7). Central State struggled with shooting efficiency, hitting just 37.5% of their shots, but kept the game close, led by Scott's 12 points in the first half.

Briscoe, who played all 40 minutes, was pivotal in the second half, scoring 16 of his 21 points after halftime. He also sank 10 of his 12 free-throw attempts, helping the Choctaws finish the game shooting 75.8% from the line. Tremaine Dixon, who added 16 points, was also key in the second half, contributing crucial buckets and locking down defensively.

Central State's shooting woes continued after the break, as they shot just 34.4% from the floor in the second half, including only 42.9% from three-point range. Raevon Thomas, who finished with four points, and Steven Key II, who had five, struggled to find consistent offense, though both played hard defensively.

Mississippi College's defense was a major factor, as they held Central State to just six points off turnovers, compared to 13 points for the Choctaws. The fast break was another area where Mississippi College dominated, outscoring Central State 21-9 on the break, led by Dixon and Briscoe's transition play.

Central State had a brief lead midway through the second half but could not capitalize on several key possessions. Mississippi College's 25-of-33 performance from the free-throw line helped seal the win, despite the Choctaws only shooting 47.7% from the field.

In addition to Briscoe and Dixon, Judah Land contributed nine points and nine rebounds for the Choctaws, while Benjamin Stewart and J.J. Harris each provided solid contributions off the bench.

For Central State, Ramar Pryor added 11 points, and Ibrahima Jarjou had five, but the Marauders were outmuscled on the boards, with Mississippi College holding a 29-24 advantage in rebounds.

With the win, Mississippi College begins the season with a 1-0 record, while Central State falls to 0-1. The Choctaws will next host a home game against on Sunday November, 10 against Albany State at 6 pm.