Fayetteville, N.C. - The Southern Virginia men's basketball team ended a four-game skid with an impressive victory over Methodist University, securing a 73-65 win.
The Knights took control from the outset, opening the game with a commanding 10-2 lead. Tyler Kartcher contributed significantly, scoring six of those 10 points in the paint. Despite a strong push from Methodist, the Monarchs managed to even the score at 27 with five minutes remaining in the first half. However, the Knights regained momentum with crucial layups from Malakai Olson and a DJ Green layup, heading into halftime with a narrow 38-35 lead.
In the second half, Methodist came out with renewed energy, cutting the lead to one. Koa Baker responded with back-to-back layups to widen the gap. The Monarchs continued to fight back, but consecutive threes from Sam Jex and clutch free throws gave the Knights a slim lead with three minutes remaining. A pivotal 3-pointer from Malakai Olson broke open the game, allowing the Knights to secure the win with successful free throws, ending the game at 73-65.
DJ Green led the game in scoring with an impressive 19 points, playing all 40 minutes and contributing three rebounds and three assists. Koa Baker showcased efficiency, recording a double-double with 16 points on 6-9 shooting from the field, along with 10 rebounds and four assists. Malakai Olson, playing a strong 38 minutes in the paint, added six rebounds, a block, and a steal, finishing with 14 points.
The Knights will now return home for a challenging matchup against the defending USA South Conference Champions, North Carolina Wesleyan University, on Saturday, January 27th, with tip-off set for 5:00 PM.