Bethune defeats Grambling 74-65
Bethune Dominates Grambling in Conference Showdown
In a tightly contested conference matchup, the Bethune Bulldogs handed visiting Grambling State 74-65 on their home turf at Moore Gymnasium.
The first half saw the home team, Bethune, take an early lead and never look back. The Bulldogs' balanced attack, which featured 22 successful field goals (44.0% FG) and 15 free throws (68.0%), proved too much for Grambling to handle. Meanwhile, Grambling struggled from beyond the arc, making just 4 of 20 three-point attempts (20.0%).
As the teams headed into halftime, Bethune held a commanding 35-24 lead. The largest lead of the first half belonged to the Bulldogs, who looked poised to put away their visitors.
Grambling attempted to mount a comeback in the second half, but it was too little, too late. The Tigers' Rickey Ballard scored 14 points (40.0% FG), while Devyn Franklin chipped in with 8 rebounds and 6 points. However, they were unable to overcome the deficit.
For Bethune, Jakobi Heady played a key role in the victory, grabbing 5 rebounds and scoring 12 points. Doctor Bradley added 4 assists and 7 points off the bench.
The final margin of 9 points was a testament to Bethune's team effort. The Bulldogs' advanced statistics showcased their efficient playmaking (eFG% 48.4%), strong rebounding (38 rebounds, 34.2 OREB%), and ability to capitalize on turnovers (24 fast break points).
Grambling's shooting woes were evident throughout the game, particularly from beyond the arc. Their struggles with three-point attempts made all the difference in the outcome.
The win puts Bethune in a strong position within their conference standings, and they will look to build on this victory as they head into their next matchup.
Game Stats
Bethune (HOME)
* Field Goals: 27/61 (44.0%)
* 2-Point FG: 22/47 (46.8%)
* 3-Point FG: 5/14 (36.0%)
* Free Throws: 15/22 (68.0%)
* Rebounds: 38
* Assists: 13
* Turnovers: 17
* Steals: 8
* Blocks: 4
* Total Fouls: 15
* Total Points: 74
Grambling (AWAY)
* Field Goals: 22/56 (39.0%)
* 2-Point FG: 18/36 (50.0%)
* 3-Point FG: 4/20 (20.0%)
* Free Throws: 17/22 (77.0%)
* Rebounds: 36
* Assists: 10
* Turnovers: 18
* Steals: 11
* Blocks: 1
* Total Fouls: 24
* Total Points: 65
Final Score
Bethune Bulldogs 74, Grambling State Tigers 65