SAVANNAH, GA | Despite a commanding first-half performance, the Morehouse Maroon Tigers were unable to hold off the Savannah State Tigers, falling 64-57 in a tightly contested Southern Intercollegiate Athletic Conference (SIAC) showdown at Tiger Arena on Wednesday night.
First Half
Morehouse (7-7, 5-2 SIAC) jumped out to an early lead behind the strong play of senior guard JerMontae Hill and junior forward Cedric Taylor III. Hill energized his team with a thunderous fast-break dunk and a string of mid-range jumpers, finishing with a team-high 16 points and 7 rebounds. Taylor III matched Hill's offensive output, contributing 16 points ,of his own, along with two blocks and key defensive stops.
The Maroon Tigers' defensive pressure in the first half forced Savannah State (6-6, 4-4 SIAC) into nine turnovers, which they converted into points. Sophomore guard Damion Mitchell added to the defensive effort with a steal and two blocks, while sophomore guard Omar Rowe knocked down two timely 3-pointers to give Morehouse a narrow 30-27 halftime advantage.
Second Half
The second half proved to be a different story as Savannah State turned the tide with defensive adjustments and dominance at the free-throw line. The Maroon Tigers struggled to maintain their composure, committing 11 turnovers in the half, bringing their game total to 24. Savannah State capitalized on these mistakes, scoring 23 points off turnovers. The home team shot an impressive 21-for-23 from the free-throw line compared to Morehouse's 7-for-14, a key difference in the game.
Morehouse's offense struggled to find consistency as Savannah State tightened its defense. Rowe chipped in 11 points, including three 3-pointers, but Morehouse's bench contributed just 17 points.
Savannah State also controlled the boards in critical moments, out-rebounding Morehouse 37-35 and grabbing 13 offensive rebounds that led to second-chance points.
Key Contributors
Team Stats Comparison
- Field Goals: Morehouse (45.1%), Savannah State (31.6%)
- 3-Point Shooting: Morehouse (28.6%), Savannah State (25.9%)
- Free Throws: Morehouse (50%), Savannah State (91.3%)
- Turnovers: Morehouse (24), Savannah State (16)
The Maroon Tigers will look to regroup quickly as the conference race heats up. Morehouse will host Benedict at home on Saturday at 1PM (weather permitting) for Divine Nine Day. Allen will come to Forbes Arena to face the Maroon Tigers at 7PM on Monday. For up-to-date athletic information on the Maroon Tigers, follow them on social media or online at www.morehouseathletics.com.
