SHREVEPORT, La. – The William Carey men's basketball team mounted a late rally after facing a double-digit deficit, but LSU Shreveport held off the comeback attempt to defeat the Crusaders 84-77 Wednesday night at The Dock.
William Carey struck first on a 3-pointer from
Malik Franklin, and the two teams battled through a tightly contested opening stretch with neither side able to create much separation. LSU Shreveport eventually found its offensive rhythm and slowly built its advantage, taking a 25-17 lead with less than nine minutes remaining in the first half.
The Pilots extended their lead to 34-23 before the Crusaders responded.
Rashad Stevenson and
Arzika Seibou combined for key baskets that cut the deficit to six, but LSU Shreveport answered with another run and pushed its lead to 41-28. Stevenson connected on a late 3-pointer to trim the margin to 41-31 heading into halftime.
William Carey came out quickly to begin the second half.
Grace Aluma scored on the inside, while Franklin ignited the offense with consecutive steals that led to baskets, helping the Crusaders close the gap to 43-38 just three minutes into the period. LSU Shreveport responded each time William Carey threatened, maintaining a double-digit advantage for much of the half, but the Crusaders continued to battle.
Franklin remained the catalyst offensively, knocking down multiple 3-pointers and consistently attacking the basket to earn trips to the free-throw line. A
David Combest 3-pointer with 7:19 remaining brought William Carey within four at 65-61.
The Crusaders continued to push down the stretch and closed the gap to 81-77 in the final minute following baskets from Franklin and
Troy Dunn. However, the Pilots converted their opportunities at the free-throw line in the closing seconds to secure the 84-77 victory.
Franklin paced the Crusaders with 34 points, while Aluma added 10 points.
William Carey returns to action on Saturday, Nov. 7, when it hosts Louisiana Christian in non-conference play. Tip-off is scheduled for 2 p.m. at Clinton Gymnasium.
