In a captivating showdown on Saturday night, Tre Thomas emerged as the star player, guiding Bethune-Cookman Wildcats to a narrow 67-64 victory against Alabama State. The thrilling encounter took place in Daytona Beach, Florida, bringing excitement to basketball fans and marking an essential win for the Wildcats.
Thomas showcased his exceptional skills by not only being the top scorer with 19 points but also contributing significantly on the boards with 10 rebounds. His remarkable performance was a key factor in Bethune-Cookman improving their record to 8-13 overall and 5-3 in the Southwestern Athletic Conference.
Adding to the team's stellar performance was Daniel Rouzan, who provided offensive support with 17 points, shooting an impressive 7 of 11 from the field. Rouzan also stepped up on defense, grabbing eight rebounds to frustrate the Hornets' offense throughout the game.
The Wildcats maintained pressure on Alabama State, as David Onanina delivered a solid performance of his own. Onanina shot 6 of 7 from the field, contributing 14 crucial points, helping Bethune-Cookman hold onto their lead and secure the win.
On the other side, Alabama State fought valiantly with CJ Hines leading the charge. Hines matched Thomas' performance with 19 points and showcased his defensive prowess with two steals. In addition to Hines, D'ante Bass added 11 points, while Antonio Madlock chipped in with nine points, seven rebounds, and four assists, attempting to turn the tide for the Hornets.
The game almost tilted in Alabama State's favor when, in the final seconds, CJ Hines tried for a dramatic three-point shot. Unfortunately, the attempt didn't connect, leaving the Hornets just shy of a win and settling their record to 8-13 overall and 4-4 in the conference.
Looking ahead, both teams are preparing for their upcoming games on Monday. Bethune-Cookman will host Alabama A&M, while Alabama State will hit the road to face Florida A&M. These matchups promise to deliver more thrilling basketball action as the teams look to improve their standings in the Southwestern Athletic Conference.
This engaging encounter further highlights the competitive nature of college basketball, offering fans exhilarating performances and intense competition. With players like Thomas and Hines on the court, spectators will undoubtedly be eager for more standout moments in the games to come.