CLINTON, Miss. — Mississippi College (8-7) secured a 97-87 victory over Lee (6-6) on Thursday night at A.E. Wood Coliseum. The Choctaws capitalized on fast-break opportunities, scoring 31 points in transition.
The game began with an explosive start as Lee's Zach Gray sank a fast-break 3-pointer just nine seconds in.
Avaughn Johnson quickly responded for the Choctaws with a layup at the 19:26 mark. Despite the back-and-forth scoring, Lee established a slight edge with a 9-0 run capped by Willie Walton's jumper at 3:51, extending their lead to nine points. MC's Johnson narrowed the gap with a 3-pointer in the final second, closing the first half at 36-30 in favor of Lee.
MC and Lee provided a tense contest in the second half, with both teams trading leads and showcasing impressive offensive efforts. Johnson hit a 3-pointer with just one second left to tie the game at 78, capping off a thrilling final minute. Prior to that, Ben Ritger of Lee had contributed significantly with a 3-pointer and a layup, keeping Lee ahead for most of the half.
Josh Holman also made notable plays for The Blue and Gold, including a layup at 2:07 that kept the deficit within reach. The half ended with both teams locked at 78, setting up a dramatic finish.
MC capitalized on a series of free throws and defensive rebounds to outpace Lee. Johnson led The Blue and Gold, hitting multiple free throws and a layup and securing defensive stops, including a block at the 01:03 mark.
DeMarcus Powe contributed with a key 3-pointer, while
Phil Nelson added to the fast break points with a timely jumper assisted by Johnson. Despite Tylon Chatman's efforts for Lee, MC extended their lead to secure a 97-87 advantage by the end of the half.
Mississippi Col. Top Performers
Avaughn Johnson Â
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- 39 points Â
- 4/5 three-pointers made Â
- 13/15 free throws made Â
- 11 rebounds Â
Phil Nelson Â
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- 17 points Â
- 8/9 free throws made Â
- 2 rebounds Â
Josh Holman Â
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- 12 points Â
- 5/7 field goals made Â
- 5 rebounds Â
DeMarcus Powe Â
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- 12 points Â
- 2 three-pointers made Â
- 5 rebounds
In their next game, MC will host Trevecca Nazarene on Saturday, Jan. 10. The contest is set to tip off at 4 p.m. at A.E. Wood Coliseum in Clinton, Mississippi.
