ATLANTA, GA | The Morehouse Maroon Tigers celebrated their first conference victory of the season with a commanding performance against the Central State Marauders, securing a 78-59 win in front of an enthusiastic crowd at Forbes Arena. This special match-up, part of Atlanta Public Schools Day, tipped off at an earlier-than-usual 11 AM, but the Tigers wasted no time asserting their dominance.
First Half Highlights:
Central State briefly led early in the game. The Marauders largest lead was 3 points, which occurred after they hit an opening three-pointer to go up 3-0. However, the Maroon Tigers quickly responded and took control of the game, never relinquishing the lead after the contest was tied at 7-7, for the final time. The Tigers dominated on both ends of the court, setting the tone early with an aggressive defense that forced 10 turnovers, resulting in 18 points. Inside the paint, Morehouse's offense was relentless, scoring 22 points compared to Central State's 14. The bench also played a key role, contributing 12 points.
Key contributors in the first half included JerMontae Hill, who attacked the rim consistently, and Jaden Gray, whose outside shooting gave the Tigers an additional scoring dimension. Defensively, Damion Mitchell recorded a block and a steal, setting the tone for the team's effort. The Tigers capitalized on Central State's mistakes, turning defense into offense with seven steals in the first 20 minutes. The Maroon Tigers would own a respectable 38-25 lead by halftime.
Second Half Highlights:
The Maroon Tigers maintained their intensity in the second half, outscoring the Marauders 40-34 to secure the win. Morehouse's offensive execution remained sharp, with bench players adding another 23 points to their total. Everyone who dress for the Maroon Tigers saw action, in this contest. The team continued to dominate in the paint, scoring 18 second-half points near the basket. The largest lead of the game was 22 points by Morehouse in the second half. The Maroon Tigers maintained their dominance throughout the game, capitalizing on strong defensive pressure and balanced scoring to build and sustain a commanding advantage.
Cedric Taylor III stood out, contributing key baskets and assists during crucial moments. Matt Coffey and Dondre Watson anchored the rebounding effort, combining for seven boards in the second half, while the defense held Central State to just 9-of-26 shooting. The Tigers finished with 24 points off turnovers, while picking up their first conference win.
Morehouse Highlights and Standouts:
- JerMontae Hill: Led all scorers with 15 points, shooting an efficient 50% from the field. He also contributed defensively with two steals and five rebounds.
- Jaden Gray: Tallied 13 points, including two three-pointers, and added three rebounds and two steals.
- Cedric Taylor III: Added 10 points, dished out five assists, and collected four rebounds.
- Matthew Coffey and Dre Watson: Inside the paint, Coffey and Watson controlled the boards, combining for 12 rebounds. Coffey also chipped in eight points, while Watson's rebounding presence was instrumental.
The Maroon Tigers excelled in forcing turnovers, scoring 24 points off Central State's 19 mistakes. Their relentless effort in the paint was evident, outscoring the Marauders 40-26 in close-range baskets. Additionally, Morehouse's bench stepped up, contributing an impressive 35 points to seal the victory.
Up Next:
The Maroon Tigers will embark on a two-game road trip to Tennessee, where they'll face SIAC foes. On Thursday at 8 PM (ET), they take on the LeMoyne-Owen Magicians, in Memphis, followed by a Saturday afternoon match up against the Lane Dragons at 2 PM (ET), in Jackson. The Maroon Tigers hope to head into the Winter break with momentum with a pair of victories, to end out the calendar year. For up-to-date athletic information on the Maroon Tigers, follow them on social media or online at www.morehouseathletics.com.
