Alcorn State defeated Bethune-Cookman 56-51 at Moore Gymnasium in Daytona Beach, with Nakia Cheatham leading the Braves by scoring 12 points and finishing one rebound short of a double-double.
Bethune-Cookman, now holding a record of 3-16 overall and 1-5 in conference play, struggled offensively in the first quarter. The Wildcats made only three out of twelve shots and committed eight turnovers, which allowed Alcorn State to take an early lead. Cheatham contributed eight points in the opening period, including two three-pointers, helping Alcorn secure a 13-7 advantage after the first quarter.
In the second quarter, Bethune-Cookman was unable to close the gap as Alcorn maintained its seven-point lead. The Braves forced six more turnovers from B-CU and collected six offensive rebounds, resulting in additional shot opportunities. However, Alcorn State converted only 27.8% of their attempts during this stretch. Tyler Butler scored nine points for Bethune-Cookman in the second quarter.
During the third quarter, Bethune-Cookman improved its shooting percentage to 50% and limited itself to three turnovers but was out-rebounded by Alcorn State 12-6. Despite this, the Wildcats managed to stay within reach as they held Alcorn to 37.5% shooting.
The Wildcats continued their efforts in the fourth quarter and narrowed the deficit to three points following a Kailyn Peters three-pointer with just over eight minutes left. However, Alcorn State managed to maintain its lead and secured the win by making key plays down the stretch. The Braves attempted only eight shots in the final period but benefited from making eleven out of seventeen free throws as Bethune-Cookman fouled late in an attempt to extend the game.
Tyler Butler led Bethune-Cookman with 13 points and came within two rebounds of a double-double while also recording two steals and two blocks. Daimoni Dorsey added 11 points for B-CU. Cheatham was Alcorn’s only player to score in double figures.
Bethune-Cookman finished with 24 turnovers compared to Alcorn State’s 13. Despite shooting just 23% from beyond the arc and 32% overall, Alcorn State emerged victorious.
Bethune-Cookman will next face Jackson State on Saturday afternoon at 12:30 p.m. EST as part of a double-header event.
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