Furman defeats Manhattan 68-75

Furman Edges Manhattan in Thrilling 75-68 Victory

In a tightly contested non-conference matchup, the Furman Paladins (away team) emerged victorious over the Manhattan Jaspers (home team) at Draddy Gymnasium on Saturday night, 75-68.

The game was a back-and-forth affair, with both teams trading baskets and showcasing their defensive prowess. At the break, Furman held a slim lead of one point, but the Jaspers would not go quietly into the night. A strong second-half effort from Manhattan's Anthony Isaac, who contributed 8 points and 10 rebounds, allowed his team to stay within striking distance.

However, Furman's Alex Wilkins proved to be the difference-maker in the second half, scoring 18 of his team-high 18 points after halftime. The sophomore guard also chipped in with 7 assists, helping the Paladins maintain their lead and ultimately seal the victory.

The game was a 3-point shooting battle, with Furman making 10 of 28 (35.7%) from beyond the arc, while Manhattan converted just 7 of 26 (27.0%). The Jaspers' Jaden Winston led all scorers with 17 points, but it wasn't enough to overcome Furman's balanced attack.

The Paladins' Charles Johnston and Furman's Alex Wilkins were nearly unstoppable in the paint, combining for 20 points on 11-18 shooting (61.1%). The duo also controlled the glass, with Johnston grabbing 11 rebounds to complement his 11 points.

Furman's victory was a testament to their ability to withstand adversity and capitalize on opportunities. The Paladins' strong defense limited Manhattan to just 17 turnovers, which ultimately proved costly for the Jaspers.

In contrast, Furman's 20 assists were a hallmark of their offense, showcasing the team's cohesion and ability to distribute the ball effectively.

The win marked a significant milestone in Furman's non-conference schedule, as they now boast a crucial victory over a Manhattan program that has consistently been ranked among the nation's top programs.