VALDOSTA, Ga. — Mississippi College (7-6, 4-3 Gulf South) defeated Valdosta St. (6-6, 1-5 Gulf South) 103-89 on Friday night at The Complex. This impressive performance marked the most points Mississippi College has scored in a road win in nine years, since their 106-101 victory at West Georgia on Feb. 25, 2017. Mississippi Col. secured the win with a strong performance in the paint, scoring 52 points inside while also contributing 11 three-pointers.

Mississippi College opened the game with a quick 3-pointer from Avaughn Johnson, assisted by Josh Holman, setting an early tone. Valdosta State narrowed the gap with fast-break layups by MJ Jones and Maalik Leitch, bringing the score to 5-4. Holman led The Blue and Gold with key contributions, including a layup at the 17:05 mark and a 3-pointer shortly after, extending their lead to 10-4. DeMarcus Powe played a pivotal role, scoring consistently throughout the half, with his jumper at 2:09 giving MC a commanding 50-40 lead. The Blue and Gold closed the half ahead, 55-42, capitalizing on Valdosta State's turnovers and outscoring them in points off turnovers and fast breaks.

The second half saw a strong offensive effort from the Choctaws, led by Phil Nelson, who contributed significantly with a layup at 9:51 and a fast-break layup at 3:31. Valdosta State's Devon Rainey opened the scoring in the half with consecutive layups, but Mississippi maintained control. Judah Land was pivotal, executing a dunk at the 10:52 mark and a layup with 1:24 remaining. The Blue and Gold's defensive pressure included multiple steals and blocks, limiting Valdosta's opportunities despite a late 3-pointer from Antonio Green. The Choctaws outscored Valdosta State 48-47 in the half, securing a decisive overall victory.

Mississippi Col. Top Performers

Josh Holman  
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- 15 points  
- 11 rebounds  
- 6/10 field goals made  

DeMarcus Powe  
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- 18 points  
- 8/15 field goals made  
- 7 rebounds  

Avaughn Johnson  
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- 18 points  
- 16 rebounds  
- 3/3 free throws made  

Phil Nelson  
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- 19 points  
- 3/5 three-pointers made  
- 2 steals  

Judah Land  
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- 12 points  
- 3 blocks  
- 5 rebounds  

In their next game, MC will face West Florida on Sunday, Jan. 4. They will travel to Pensacola, Florida, with tip-off set for 4 p.m. Read Full Article