Alabama A&M defeats Arkansas-Pine Bluff 82-70

The Alabama A&M Bulldogs, ranked 311 in the NET rankings, pulled off a stunning 12-point upset over the Arkansas-Pine Bluff Golden Lions, ranked 304, with a final score of 82-70. This win is a significant shock, considering Arkansas-Pine Bluff's recent form, where they had been averaging 74.8 points per game over their last 5 games, outscoring their opponents by 4.2 points. In contrast, Alabama A&M had been averaging 68 points per game over their last 5 games, being outscored by 1.8 points. The Bulldogs' 82-point outing was a notable improvement, and it ultimately made the difference in the game. With this win, Alabama A&M improved their record to 15-11, while Arkansas-Pine Bluff fell to 11-15. The 12-point margin of victory was also a surprise, given that CHD Scout had predicted a much closer game, with Alabama A&M winning by 6.6 points.

As the game unfolded, it became clear that Alabama A&M's strategy was to exploit Arkansas-Pine Bluff's weaknesses on defense. The Bulldogs came out strong in the first half, scoring 33 points, while holding the Golden Lions to 31. In the second half, Alabama A&M continued to push the pace, scoring 49 points, while Arkansas-Pine Bluff managed 39. The Bulldogs' ability to maintain a high level of intensity throughout the game was a key factor in their victory. Kintavious Dozier and Koron Davis led the charge for Alabama A&M, each scoring 20 points. Dozier also added 10 rebounds to his tally, making him a dominant force on the court. James Graham III also chipped in with 17 points, making it a well-rounded effort from the Bulldogs. On the other hand, Alex Mirhosseini was the top performer for Arkansas-Pine Bluff, scoring 26 points, while Jaquan Scott added 21 points and 7 rebounds.

The star performers in this game were undoubtedly Dozier and Davis, who combined for 40 points. However, it was not just their scoring that made the difference. Dozier's 10 rebounds were crucial in giving Alabama A&M a significant advantage on the boards. Davis, on the other hand, was instrumental in creating scoring opportunities for his teammates. Mirhosseini, despite his 26 points, was unable to carry his team to victory, as the Golden Lions' supporting cast was unable to provide sufficient support. Scott's 21 points and 7 rebounds were a notable effort, but it was not enough to overcome the deficit. As the game wore on, it became clear that Alabama A&M's depth and balance were too much for Arkansas-Pine Bluff to handle. The Bulldogs' ability to score from multiple positions and rebound effectively made it difficult for the Golden Lions to keep up.

The CHD Scout prediction of an Alabama A&M win by 6.6 points was ultimately correct, but the margin of victory was much larger than expected.

The prediction was correct because Alabama A&M's defense was able to contain Arkansas-Pine Bluff's high-powered offense, holding them to 70 points. The Bulldogs' ability to limit the Golden Lions' scoring opportunities and force them into difficult shots was a key factor in their victory. Additionally, Alabama A&M's offense was able to capitalize on Arkansas-Pine Bluff's defensive weaknesses, scoring 82 points. The Bulldogs' strategy of attacking the paint and drawing fouls also paid off, as they were able to get to the free-throw line 25 times, making 18 of their attempts. This was a significant advantage, as Arkansas-Pine Bluff only managed to get to the line 15 times, making 10 of their attempts.

As the game came to a close, it was clear that Alabama A&M had made a significant statement. Their 15-11 record may not be the most impressive, but their recent form has been promising. With wins over Mississippi Valley State, Grambling, and Florida A&M, the Bulldogs have shown that they can compete with the best teams in their conference. This win over Arkansas-Pine Bluff, a team that had been on a hot streak, is a notable upset. The Golden Lions had won 4 of their last 5 games, with their only loss coming against Alabama State. However, they were unable to overcome the Bulldogs' strong defense and balanced offense.

The implications of this win for Alabama A&M's tournament picture are significant. With this victory, the Bulldogs have improved their NET ranking to 311, which is still a long way from being considered a tournament team. However, their quad 4 win over Arkansas-Pine Bluff is a notable addition to their resume. The Bulldogs' ability to win games against teams with similar or better records is crucial in improving their tournament chances. While they still have a long way to go, this win is a step in the right direction. For Arkansas-Pine Bluff, the loss is a setback, but their recent form has been promising. With a 4-1 record over their last 5 games, the Golden Lions have shown that they can compete with the best teams in their conference. However, their quad 4 loss to Alabama A&M is a notable blemish on their resume.

In the end, Alabama A&M's 82-70 win over Arkansas-Pine Bluff was a surprise, but not entirely unexpected. The Bulldogs' recent form had been promising, and their ability to capitalize on the Golden Lions' defensive weaknesses was the key to their victory. With this win, Alabama A&M has improved their record to 15-11, while Arkansas-Pine Bluff has fallen to 11-15. The Bulldogs' tournament chances are still a long shot, but this win has given them a glimmer of hope. As the season comes to a close, Alabama A&M must continue to win games against teams with similar or better records if they want to improve their tournament chances. With 5 games remaining in the regular season, the Bulldogs have a chance to make a push for the tournament. However, it will not be easy, as they face a tough schedule, including games against Southern and Bethune-Cookman.