VALDOSTA, Ga. — After a strong road performance in Daytona Beach, the Valdosta State men's basketball team returns to The Complex on Thursday, Dec. 4, for an 8 p.m. Gulf South Conference matchup against the University of West Alabama. The Blazers enter the game riding momentum from a 103–91 win over Embry-Riddle, a performance fueled by five players in double figures and 42 points from the bench.

West Alabama arrives in Valdosta playing some of its best basketball of the young season. The Tigers are coming off a dominant 106–57 win over Oakwood, where they shot 56 percent from the floor, hit 50 percent from three, and outrebounded the Ambassadors by 20. UWA's depth was on display with Caleb Parr (17 points), Inslee Carroll (16), and Christian Thompson (10 points, 10 rebounds) leading the way, while their defense held Oakwood star Jordan Bell—who entered averaging 25.5 per game—to just five points. Head coach Nick Woodruff praised the Tigers' "mental intensity and competitive stamina," emphasizing the team's growth as they prepare for conference competition.

For the Blazers, the keys will be tempo, defensive rebounding, and utilizing their depth against a UWA squad that thrives on physicality and defensive pressure. VSU's balanced attack — from Devon Rainey's efficiency to Peter McKey's perimeter threat and the energy provided by the bench — will be crucial in dictating pace and generating quality looks. With The Complex providing a strong home-floor advantage, the Blazers aim to open December with a statement in conference play.

Tipoff is set for 8 p.m. Thursday night inside The Complex.

Stay up to date on all Blazer news by following @VState_Blazers on Instagram and X and by liking the "Valdosta State Blazers" Facebook page. The Blazer Athletics Mobile App is available on iTunes and Android featuring exclusive content, the latest news and updates, schedules, rosters, gameday notifications, and more.