AUM Forward, Trent Coleman, shoots a free throw after MC’s first technical foul at AUM’s homecoming game on Feb. 1.
By: Kate Lindsey-Hunter
MONTGOMERY, Ala. — On the evening of February 1, the Auburn University at Montgomery (AUM) men’s basketball team defeated Mississippi College (MC) 86-74 in an exciting homecoming match demonstrating AUM’s tenacity and energy, especially in the second half.
As both teams battled for the lead, the game got off to a fast start. AUM forward Malachi Rhodes established the tone in the first 15 seconds by making two free throws after a foul.
The first half was packed with back-and-forth action, with the score tied seven times and the lead shifting 11 times.
MC took a three-point lead at the ten-minute mark, but AUM’s defense recovered in time to tie the score. The score was quite tight at halftime, with MC ahead 34–33.
Michael Cheaney, the head coach of AUM, described the first half as “a grind.” “We knew we had to adjust our game plan to pull ahead.”
Adjust they did! AUM put up a dominant offensive attack in the second half. They gained a nine-point lead in a matter of minutes. By 8:47, the gap increased to 19 points.
AUM forward Chapelle Whitney and other key players took advantage of the situation. They drew fouls and scored significant points to increase the lead. The audience cheered loudly as Whitney made an and one play following a foul.
The game leaned further in favor of AUM when MC was given two technical fouls, one for their head coach, Randy Bolden and another for MC guard, Rashad Bolden.
Cheaney noted, “The second half showed what we’re capable of when we play our game.” He went on to say, “The team’s energy and focus were phenomenal.”
The game demonstrated the intense competition between the two teams with 12 lead changes and seven ties. However, AUM carried out a solid game in the second half to secure a well-earned victory.
The homecoming success sets a good tone as the team prepares for D2 day on Feb. 20. Starting at 7:30 p.m., AUM’s next home match against The University of Alabama in Huntsville (UAH) will follow free food and drinks for students, faculty and staff to enjoy.
