Alabama A&M secured a 100-91 victory over Jackson State at the Event Center, thanks in large part to Kintavious Dozier's impressive 31-point performance. The Bulldogs' high-scoring affair saw both teams combine for 191 points, with Alabama A&M ultimately emerging victorious. Dozier's outing was complemented by solid showings from James Graham III and Koron Davis, who chipped in 15 points and 8 rebounds, and 15 points and 6 rebounds, respectively.
Jackson State's Daeshun Ruffin stole the show with a remarkable 39-point, 10-assist effort, but it wasn't enough to propel his team to victory. Ruffin's performance was aided by Tamarion Hoover's 15 points and Dorian McMillian's 14 points and 7 rebounds. Despite their best efforts, the Tigers were unable to overcome Alabama A&M's balanced attack.
The game got off to a fast-paced start, with Jackson State taking a 40-36 lead into halftime. However, Alabama A&M adjusted its strategy in the second half, outscoring the Tigers 64-51 to secure the win. The Bulldogs' ability to adapt and capitalize on their opportunities was the difference-maker in the contest.
Kintavious Dozier's 31 points led all Alabama A&M scorers, and his contributions were crucial in the team's second-half surge. Dozier's performance, combined with the efforts of Graham III and Davis, allowed the Bulldogs to maintain a consistent scoring pace throughout the game. On the other hand, Daeshun Ruffin's outstanding individual effort was not enough to overcome the collective might of Alabama A&M's offense.
This matchup was classified as a Quadrant 4 game for both teams, and the outcome will have implications for their respective tournament resumes. Alabama A&M, now 11-9 on the season, want to build on this victory as it navigates the remainder of its schedule. Meanwhile, Jackson State falls to 6-14, and the team must regroup and refocus in order to make a push for a stronger finish to the season.
The win is a positive addition to Alabama A&M's resume, but it does not significantly alter their tournament chances. As a Quadrant 4 victory, it helps to bolster the Bulldogs' overall record, but it may not carry substantial weight in the eyes of the selection committee. Nevertheless, Alabama A&M will take the win and look to use it as momentum as they move forward. For Jackson State, the loss is a missed opportunity to gain ground in the standings, and the team must bounce back quickly in order to stay competitive.