LORMAN – Alcorn State men's basketball delivered a solid performance on both ends of the court, earning a 70-61 victory over Bethune-Cookman on Monday evening at the Davey L. Whitney Health & Physical Education Complex. The win marked the Braves' fourth SWAC victory of the season, as they improved to 4-3 in conference play.
Marcus Tankersley led the way with 17 points on 7-of-12 shooting and added five rebounds.
Michael Pajeaud contributed an all-around effort with 11 points, nine rebounds, and four assists, while
Keionte Cornelius chipped in 13 points, including three three-pointers. Alcorn's defense was a key factor, forcing 15 turnovers and holding Bethune-Cookman to 20% shooting from beyond the arc.
The Braves built an early lead and never relinquished control, using their physicality in the paint and consistent free-throw shooting to secure the victory.
GAME RECAP
First Half – Alcorn 34, Bethune-Cookman 32
- Alcorn started strong with a balanced attack, as Tankersley and Pajeaud combined for 15 points in the opening period.
- Cornelius hit two timely three-pointers to keep the Braves ahead in a back-and-forth first half that saw four ties and six lead changes.
- The Braves outrebounded the Wildcats 19-14 in the half, with Pajeaud leading the effort on the boards.
Second Half – Alcorn 70, Bethune-Cookman 61
- The Braves opened the second half with a 9-2 run, fueled by strong defense and transition buckets from Tankersley and Pajeaud.
- Cornelius added another three-pointer midway through the half to extend Alcorn's lead to double digits.
- Djahi Binet anchored the defense with five rebounds and three blocks, preventing any late comeback attempts from Bethune-Cookman.
- Alcorn closed the game out at the free-throw line, hitting six of their last seven attempts to secure the victory.
BY THE NUMBERS
- 17 – Marcus Tankersley led all scorers with 17 points and added five rebounds.
- 31 – Alcorn dominated the boards, pulling down 31 rebounds, including 12 offensive boards.
- 15 – The Braves forced 15 turnovers and converted them into 15 points.
- 69.6% – Alcorn shot 16-of-23 from the free-throw line, maintaining their composure in key moments.
UP NEXT
The Braves (4-15, 4-3 SWAC) will look to continue their momentum as they travel to Baton Rouge to face Southern University on Saturday, February 1. Tip-off is set for 4:30 p.m. CST.
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