ATLANTA, GA |  The Maroon Tigers kicked off their first home game of the season against the Valdosta State Blazers. The game began with a fast-paced atmosphere, with both teams playing with the same intensity. Unfortunately, the Tigers could not take control of the game during the second half against the Blazer's constant rotation of players' style of play, losing 79-66.

Despite this loss, Morehouse relied on their leading scorer, Cedric Taylor III, who finished the game with 18 points, seven rebounds, and two assists on 60% shooting. Josiah Lawson contributed to this match-up, making 83.3% of his free throws making (5/6) shots at the line. Another contributor was Matthew Coffey, who ended the game with nine rebounds. The entire team finished the game offensively with 32.9% shooting, 25% three-point shooting, an overall free throw percentage of 56.5%, 46 rebounds, and 18 turnovers.

The game quickly began following Valdosta winning the tip-off to start their offensive pursuit. Shortly after, the Blazers scored the first shot of the game, with Braxton Williams finishing a layup in the paint, taking the lead, 2-0. The first half would continue to be a fast-paced and high-intensity game with defensive efforts from Taylor III, who finished the half with four defensive rebounds, two blocks, and a steal.

At 11:21, Damion Mitchell capitalized on one of Taylor III's blocks and a defensive rebound that gave Morehouse possession, finishing with a dunk at the rim. This play garnered cheers from the Tigers crowd, cutting the Blazers lead down to three, 20-17. The half would end with Valdosta holding a two-point lead over Morehouse, 30-28.

The second half of the game began with the Blazers scoring, extending the lead by four, 32-28. The half would start as a close ball as both teams kept the fast-paced style of play, but the Tigers would continue their offensive struggles and fell into a 16-point deficit with 4:42 left in the game. Most of Morehouse's struggles stemmed from being unable to adapt to Valdosta's play style of routinely substituting all the players on the floor whenever the Maroon Tigers would get a rhythm going. Due to these struggles, Morehouse would lose this match against Valdosta, 79-66, in their first home game of the season.

Even though this was not Morehouse's ideal outcome for their first home game, it showcased areas where the Tigers will improve during this season. The Maroon Tigers will go on to compete Saturday against Clayton State University at Forbes Arena in Atlanta, Georgia. Play begins at 1:00 PM. For up-to-date athletic information on the Maroon Tigers, follow them on social media or online at www.morehouseathletics.com.