Staunton, VA - In a battle between two top teams in the USA South, the Southern Virginia University men's basketball paid Mary Baldwin a visit forty miles north in Staunton. DJ Green scored twenty points, and a surge of momentum at the end of the first half carried the Knights to a 74-61 victory to dispatch the defending USA South Champions.
The teams were locked in a tight battle through ten minutes, tied 21-21 after a made free throw from Mary Baldwin. Thanks to Tyler Kartchner's play, the Knights put together an excellent stretch of play to push their lead to double digits. Kartchner put his strength on full display and muscled his way into the paint for several layups. DJ Green had the stroke from the outside to finish the half with 11 points.
With the lead at 34-24 and under five minutes to play in the opening half, the Knights played Mary Baldwin even the rest of the way, maintaining their double-digit advantage into the break. Tillman Johnson had an impressive all-around performance in the half, leading the team with four assists and three steals.
At the beginning of the second half, the Knights gave their many fans who were in attendance a reason to make noise. After a layup in the opening possession from Tyler Kartchner, Southern Virginia's defense went on the attack to force two consecutive turnovers. One of them turned into a big-time jam from Christian Goode, who had a defender in pursuit. The momentum had swayed toward the Knights, who captured a fourteen-point lead.
Mary Baldwin fought back to bring the score within four at 47-43, but DJ Green kept the Knights offense rolling with his hot shooting. Kartchner also remained consistent and was closing in on another double-double. Even with their efficiency on the offensive end, Mary Baldwin remained within striking distance.
With the home team closing at 64-58 and the pressure mounting for the Knights, Jude Ballstaedt connected on a huge three to knock the wind out of their opponent's sails. It did just that as the Knights maintained their stingy defense to secure an important 74-61 victory over the defending USA South champions.
With the win, Southern Virginia improves its conference record to 7-1 and remains on top of the conference standings. DJ Green scored 20 points for the second time this season while recording seven rebounds and four assists. Christian Goode led the team with four steals and was key to their defensive success.
On Saturday, February 1st, the Knights return to their home court against Methodist. Tip-off is slated for 2:00 PM. For the most up-to-date information and details on the team, visit knightathletics.com and follow @knight_hoops.
