HUNTSVILLE, Ala. - The Valdosta State men's basketball team survived a slow start on the road to claim a thrilling overtime Gulf South Conference victory over Alabama-Huntsville, as the Blazers took down the Chargers 97-93 on Thursday night at Spragins Hall in Huntsville, Ala.
Senior forward
KJ James showed off his versatility with six three pointers in the contest, including two treys in Valdosta State's 22-point overtime period. James' 28-point performance led the Blazers in the scoring column and helped VSU overcome a six-point halftime deficit.
Valdosta State took a one-point lead on a
Clay Guillozet free throw with 2:34 to go in regulation, and the Blazers extended the lead to three at 75-72 when Guillozet finished a fastbreak with a right hand jam two possessions later. The Chargers had an opportunity to tie the game on the final possession, and UAH guard Seth Swalve delivered with a desperation three from the top of the key as time expired.
The Blazers remained calm and collective during the extra frame, and James helped VSU reclaim momentum with a three in the first 15 seconds of the overtime period. Though the Chargers kept the game close, the shot gave Valdosta State a lead they would not relinquish throughout the full duration of the overtime period.
Winston Morgan, who finished with four threes and 15 points, helped keep VSU in front with two timely triples during the final five minutes.
Beau Justice, the reigning GSC Player of the Week, added 18 in the game, Guillozet poured in 17, and
Greg Zuppas delivered 25 quality minutes with seven rebounds and 12 points.
With the win, the first place Blazers improved to 18-2 overall and lifted their conference record to 11-1. Valdosta State has now won 11 straight games. Even more impressive, is the fact that the Blazers have won 30 of their last 34 games against Gulf South Conference opponents. Alabama-Huntsville's loss marked only their second of the year at Spragins Hall and dropped the team to 12-8 on the year, 5-7 against league opponents.
The road trip continues for VSU on Saturday at 4:00 p.m. EST in Florence, Ala. at North Alabama. Full coverage will be available at www.vstateblazers.com.
