ATLANTA- In a highly anticipated Battle of the AUC, the Morehouse College Maroon Tigers faced off against their arch-rivals, Clark Atlanta Panthers, in a sold-out arena on a Saturday afternoon. Despite Morehouse's eagerness for another victory, it was Clark Atlanta that emerged triumphant with a final score of 70-62.

The match got off to a slow start, with both teams struggling to find the basket. Cedric Taylor III broke the scoring deadlock at 18:02, putting Morehouse on the board. However, an "and-one" play by Elijah Stewart quickly shifted the momentum in favor of Clark Atlanta, leading 5-3. Morehouse rallied, resulting in the score being tied multiple times under the 10-minute mark. The first half saw a seesaw battle, but Clark Atlanta managed to pull ahead, finishing with a 14-point lead at 37-23.

Returning from halftime, Morehouse was determined to mount a comeback. They successfully chipped away at the lead, narrowing the gap to 10 points. Clark Atlanta, however, maintained their composure and extended their lead to 16 points at 10:41. Morehouse continued to fight, showing resilience in their pursuit of a comeback. In the final two minutes of the game, Keshawn Pegues brought the deficit down to just four points. Despite Morehouse's efforts, Clark Atlanta secured the win with a crucial jumper by Chris Martin, and a late foul by Morehouse sent Jalen Nesmith to the line, solidifying the victory for the Panthers.

The Battle of the AUC lived up to its hype, delivering an intense and closely contested game between two fierce rivals. The game will undoubtedly be remembered as a thrilling chapter in the historic rivalry between Morehouse and Clark Atlanta.

Shemani Fuller lead his team with 15 points, Andrew Stewart added 14 points.

Cedric Taylor III carried the Maroon Tigers with 17 points. Jaden Gray had 13 points.

Morehouse is back at home on Monday, Jan 29, as they host Fort Valley State. Game time is set for 7pm.