HUNTSVILLE, Ala. — Valdosta State battled back in the second half but could not overcome an early deficit, falling 77–69 to UAH on Thursday night at SportsMED Arena.

The Blazers (11–7, 6–6 GSC) trailed 35–27 at the break before matching the Chargers point-for-point in the second half. Valdosta State cut the margin to six on multiple occasions in the final eight minutes but was unable to get over the hump as UAH sealed the game at the free-throw line.

Lucas Brown led the Blazers with 18 points off the bench, shooting 4-of-7 from the field and knocking down three triples while adding eight free throws. Blaise Wallace recorded a double-double with 12 points and 11 rebounds, anchoring the interior on both ends. Peter McKey also finished in double figures with 12 points, connecting on three three-pointers.

Valdosta State opened the second half with renewed energy, using baskets from Wallace, Drew Mills and McKey to trim the deficit to six just over two minutes into the period. The Blazers continued to answer every UAH push, pulling within five after a McKey three at the 8:43 mark and again at 6:58 following a Brown triple.

UAH, however, responded with timely inside scoring and free throws down the stretch, holding Valdosta State to one field goal over the final two minutes. The Chargers finished 22-of-31 at the line, including late conversions that prevented a final push by the Blazers.

Valdosta State shot 38.7 percent from the field and 31 percent from beyond the arc, while winning the bench scoring battle 35–10. The Blazers also forced 14 turnovers and converted them into six points.

Valdosta State will return home to continue Gulf South Conference play this weekend, looking to bounce back and build momentum as the regular season enters its second half.