MONTGOMERY, Ala. (AP) — Thomas University took a decisive step forward in the SSAC Tournament, defeating Loyola 76-61 at the Multiplex at Cramton Bowl on Wednesday.
The Night Hawks showcased their depth and defensive prowess, outrebounding Loyola 49-41 while forcing nine turnovers. Thomas led 37-28 at halftime and maintained control throughout the second half, extending their lead to as many as 21 points.
Andre Lightbourne led Thomas with 18 points, sinking two three-pointers and going 10-for-12 from the free-throw line.
Tyson Anderson added 15 points and three assists, while
Jailin Lee contributed 12 points.
Deonta Jones anchored the defense with a game-high 16 rebounds, also dishing out seven assists.
Loyola (12-17) struggled offensively, shooting just 29.9 percent from the field. Braelee Albert led the Wolf Pack with 19 points, while Kameron Johnson added 11 points and six assists.
A key turning point came midway through the first half when Thomas went on a 10-2 run, sparked by a three-pointer from Anderson and a fast-break layup by Lee off a steal. Later in the second half, the Night Hawks put the game out of reach with a dominant 12-0 stretch, highlighted by back-to-back blocks from Washington and a transition dunk by Lightbourne.
Thomas capitalized on its opportunities at the charity stripe, making 23 of 28 free throws for an 82.1 percent mark, compared to Loyola's 57.1 percent. The Night Hawks also recorded seven blocks, with
Atraiel Washington accounting for three.
With the win, Thomas advances to the next round of the SSAC Tournament, where they will face the No. 1 seed in the West, Mobile, tomorrow at 2:15 p.m CST / 3:15 PM EST.
