Mississippi College's Hot Start (Opening Minutes of the 1st Half)

• Run: 8-0
• Details: Mississippi College opened the game with an early scoring burst, fueled by Rashad Bolden's shooting. Bolden knocked down a three-pointer and followed with a mid-range jumper, helping the visitors establish a quick lead. CBU struggled to convert their early opportunities, which allowed Mississippi College to gain control.
• Impact: This early run set the tone and forced Christian Brothers to play catch-up, but the Buccaneers' defensive adjustments slowed the momentum shortly after.

Christian Brothers' Fight Back (Midway Through the 1st Half)

• Run: 9-3
• Details: Sparked by Kyler Mann's fast-break layup and a timely three-pointer by Jailen Anderson, Christian Brothers clawed their way back into the game. The Buccaneers used strong rebounding and defensive stops to keep Mississippi College from extending their lead.
• Impact: This run showcased CBU's ability to counter Mississippi College's aggression and brought the home crowd to life.

Mississippi College Extends Lead Before Halftime

• Run: 10-2
• Details: In the final five minutes of the first half, Mississippi College capitalized on turnovers and converted transition opportunities to build a 29-24 lead going into the break. Ty Briscoe and Judah Land were instrumental during this stretch, combining for key baskets.
• Impact: Mississippi College's late-half push gave them a critical cushion and tested CBU's resolve.

Christian Brothers' Early Surge in the 2nd Half

• Run: 6-2
• Details: Christian Brothers came out strong after halftime, focusing on the paint with back-to-back layups by Christian Thompson and Kyler Mann. The Buccaneers' defense also clamped down, forcing several contested shots and limiting Mississippi College's offensive efficiency.
• Impact: This run narrowed the gap and demonstrated CBU's determination to fight back.

Mississippi College's Defining Stretch (Mid-2nd Half)

• Run: 12-4
• Details: Rashad Bolden and Ty Briscoe again took control for Mississippi College, combining for a series of critical buckets. Bolden drained a three-pointer, and Briscoe scored on a fast-break layup after a steal, pushing the lead back to double digits.
• Impact: This stretch proved to be the decisive moment, as it created a lead that Christian Brothers could not fully overcome.

Late Push by Christian Brothers

• Run: 7-3
• Details: In the final five minutes, Christian Brothers made a spirited attempt to rally. Iman Kheirati converted a layup, and Christian Thompson tipped in an offensive rebound to energize the team. However, missed three-point attempts and free throws limited the comeback's effectiveness.
• Impact: Although the run fell short of overtaking Mississippi College, it highlighted the Buccaneers' never-give-up attitude and ability to compete until the end.

Standout Performances

Iman Kheirati - The Anchor

• Stats: 9 points, 16 rebounds, 4 blocks, 1 assist
• Highlights:
  • Kheirati dominated the boards, pulling down a game-high 16 rebounds and contributing heavily on the defensive end with four blocks.
  • He was a presence in the paint, securing critical stops and second-chance opportunities for the Buccaneers.
  • His scoring contributions included efficient finishes around the rim, showcasing his two-way ability.

Christian Thompson - The Leader

• Stats: 11 points, 7 rebounds, 2 blocks
• Highlights:
  • Thompson led the Buccaneers in scoring with 11 points, consistently attacking the basket and converting in traffic.
  • He also added seven rebounds, showing his ability to battle inside against Mississippi College's physical defense.
  • His defensive contributions, including two blocks, highlighted his effort on both ends of the floor.

Kyler Mann - The Spark Plug

• Stats: 7 points, 4 rebounds, 1 steal
• Highlights:
  • Mann's hustle was evident throughout the game as he contributed seven points, including key layups that kept the Buccaneers within striking distance.
  • His ability to grab offensive rebounds and convert on second-chance opportunities kept the team's energy high.

Teamwide Strengths

• Rebounding: Christian Brothers' collective effort on the boards, led by Kheirati and Thompson, kept them competitive, securing a total of 45 rebounds compared to Mississippi College's 35.
• Defensive Intensity: With six blocks and two steals, the Buccaneers displayed their ability to disrupt the opposition and contest shots effectively.

Final Thoughts