CLINTON, Miss. – Mississippi College dropped its first game of the new year in Gulf South Conference action, falling 96-74 to Valdosta State on Thursday evening at A.E. Wood Coliseum.

Valdosta State (10-2, 5-1 GSC) showcased a dominant offensive performance, led by Braxton Williams, who tallied 26 points on 9-of-12 shooting, including 6-of-7 from beyond the arc. Drew Mills added 20 points, and Cobey Harraway contributed 12 for the Blazers, who shot 57.1% from the field and knocked down 15 three-pointers.

Mississippi College (6-7, 2-5 GSC) struggled to keep pace in the first half, trailing 52-31 at the break. Rashad Bolden led the Choctaws with 20 points, going 4-of-7 from three-point range and a perfect 8-of-8 from the free-throw line. Judah Land added 14 points and five rebounds, while Odis Carter chipped in 15 points off the bench.

Despite outscoring Valdosta State 43-44 in the second half, the Choctaws couldn't overcome the Blazers' early offensive surge. Mississippi College finished the night shooting 43% from the field and 46% from deep in the second half but was ultimately out-rebounded 33-25 and forced into 14 turnovers.

Mississippi College will look to bounce back at home on Saturday, January 4, when they host West Florida. Tip-off is set for 4 p.m. at A.E. Wood Coliseum.