Wildcats burned by Blazers
By: FVSU Office of Sports Information
Basketball action resumed for Fort Valley State University (FVSU) this afternoon (December 31st) when the Wildcats played host to the Blazers of Valdosta State University in the HPE Arena on the FVSU campus.
The Wildcats entered the game with a 2-3 overall record and a 2-2 mark in conference play. The Blazers were 5-4 overall. The non-conference match up was the first game for both teams since the Christmas Holiday.
In first half action, the Blazers made 12 baskets on 29 attempts to build a lead as large as 11 points. However, the Wildcats managed to close the gap to just six points at the intermission, 29-24. FVSU made eight baskets in the first half of play and converted five of seven free throw opportunities.
In the second half, the Blazers took advantage of some early offensive opportunities and built at 46-34 lead with 14:30 remaining in the game. At the 13 minute mark, the Blazer lead had grown to 48-34. After three more minutes of play, the margin was upped to 16 points as the Blazers extended their lead to 56-38.
Down the stretch, the Wildcats made a charge at the Blazer lead. With three minutes left, Kenneth Simmons made a three point basket as the Wildcats cut the Blazer lead to 66-57. Minutes later, Britain Kelly stole a pass near mid-court and drove the distance for a lay up and the Blazer lead was shaved to seven points, 66-59.
With two minutes left FVSU's Aaron Bing hit a jump shot to make it a six point game, 67-61. However, that would be as close as the Wildcats would get. Now forced to foul, the Wildcats put the Blazers on the free throw line and VSU used the opportunity to re-build a comfortable 10 point lead. The final score: the Blazers 75, FVSU 65.
Brandon Davey led the Wildcats in scoring with 15 points. He also finished with 10 rebounds. Josh Sparks ignited the Blazers with 16 points and eight rebounds. Sidney Harris and Will Alston added 15 points each.
Now 2-4 overall, the Wildcats return to action on Tuesday, January 3rd at 8 p.m. when they host the Thorobreds of Kentucky State University in the HPE Arena. The men's game will be preceded by the Lady Wildcats and the Thorobrettes at 6 p.m. Admission to both contests is free of charge.
-Wildcats Athletics-
