Wallace State defeats Lawson State 97-87

Hanceville, AL — Three-point shooting and free throws made the difference in Wallace State Community College’s men’s basketball’s 97-87 victory over Lawson State from Traditions Bank Arena inside Tom Drake Coliseum.

The Lions were 11 for 22 in three pointers compared to Lawson State’s 6 for 20 and 28 for 39 from the free-throw line compared to Lawson State’s 14 for 22. That made up for a slight deficit for the Lions in field goals, where their average was 49.2 percent, comparted to the Cougars’ 54 percent.

From the opening tip-off, it was evident that both teams were hungry for victory. Lawson State started strong, but Wallace State's PJ Eason countered with powerful moves in the paint, grabbing rebounds and drawing fouls.

As the first half progressed, it was a back-and-forth battle. But Wallace State's Jimmie Williams connected from beyond the.

At halftime, Wallace State held a 48-40 lead.

The second half saw both teams ramping up the intensity. Wallace State's Authur Johnson caught fire from long range, knocking down three-pointers to keep his team ahead.

With time ticking away, Lawson State refused to go down without a fight, but Wallace State remained composed under pressure. Jalen Anglin showcased his clutch gene, draining timely jumpers and sinking free throws down the stretch.

As the final buzzer sounded, Wallace State emerged victorious with a hard-fought 97-87 win over Lawson State.

Williams, of Cleveland, was the high scorer for the Lions, netting 27 points, seven rebounds and five assists. Eason, of Dadeville had a double-double of 18 points and 10 rebounds. Anglin, of Jackson, Tenn., cored 19 points. Johnson, of Carrollton, Ga., scored 15 points and freshman guard Kendarius Anderson scored nine points.

The win puts the Lions up to 18-3 for the season.