PHARR GYMNASIUM | MOBILE, Ala. – The University of Mobile men's basketball team secured a hard-fought 92-88 victory over the Eagles of Pensacola Christian College on Saturday night, holding off a late challenge in a back-and-forth contest at home.
The four-point victory marked the narrowest margin between the two programs since the 2016-17 season, as neither team was able to establish lasting control throughout the contest.
Pensacola Christian struck first, taking an early 6-4 advantage before the Rams responded to take control of the scoreboard. The Eagles remained within striking distance, however, and eventually reclaimed the lead at 26-25 following a three-pointer from John Lawrenz. The two teams continued trading baskets through the remainder of the opening half, with Mobile carrying a slim 50-49 advantage into the break.
The competitive pace continued after halftime, as both teams worked to gain separation. Neither side was able to pull away, setting up for a dramatic finish with the score tied at 86 in the closing three minutes.
Following a Pensacola Christian timeout, Javion Dailey drove to the basket and drew a foul, converting both free throws to put Mobile ahead 88-86. The Eagles responded at the line, as Raul Bertinato knocked down a pair of free throws to even the score at 88.
Dailey once again stepped up for the Rams, drawing another foul, this time from Paul Stickles. He calmly converted both attempts to give Mobile a 90-88 advantage with 37 seconds remaining.
The Rams' leading scorer was fouled once more, and Dailey delivered again, making both free throws to extend the lead to 92-88. Pensacola Christian was unable to mount another scoring run, as Mobile held on for the four-point victory.
Dailey led all scorers with an impressive 33-point performance, shooting 10-of-23 from the field and 11-of-13 from the free-throw line. He also contributed 12 rebounds and five steals. Dayton Richardson added 19 points, while Jumaa Kitendo finished with 13 points and seven rebounds. Kareem Harris also reached double figures with 10 points.
As a team, Mobile shot 51.6 percent from the field and converted 22-of-29 attempts at the free-throw line. The Rams also recorded nine steals and 32 total rebounds in the win.
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Up Next For the Rams
The Rams will look to carry their momentum into their next match up as they travel north to Lebanon, Tennessee to play Cumberland University Thursday, November 5 at 7 pm CT.
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About the University of Mobile
The University of Mobile is a Christ-centered university pursuing excellence "For the Kingdom. To the World." With a vision to multiply Kingdom leaders for the glory of God and the good of the world, the university equips students through Christ-centered learning and community to pursue God's calling with courage, purpose and Kingdom impact.
The university was founded in 1961 and is affiliated with the Alabama Baptist State Convention. Located 10 miles north of Mobile, Alabama, on a campus of over 880 acres, UM offers associate, bachelor's, master's and doctoral degrees in over 75 academic programs. Learn more at umobile.edu/um-info and connect with UM on social media @univofmobile, or call Enrollment Services at 1.800.WIN.RAMS or 251.442.2222.
