LeMoyne-Owen College delivered a performance that will be remembered for years to come, overwhelming Kentucky State University 80 to 53 to secure another conference series sweep. In a night defined by precision shooting and relentless defense, the Magicians set a school record with 17 made three pointers, turning a key conference match-up into a historic showcase.
From the opening tip, LeMoyne-Owen College established control with confidence and energy. The three point shooting was nothing short of spectacular. The Magicians connected on 41.5 percent of their attempts from beyond the arc, and it seemed as though every timely possession ended with another shot splashing through the net. The long range barrage stretched Kentucky State's defense beyond its limits and opened driving lanes and rebounding opportunities throughout the night.
Depth once again proved to be a decisive advantage. The LeMoyne-Owen bench outscored Kentucky State 43 to 22, highlighting the team's balance and collective effort. Fresh legs and consistent production from the reserves kept the tempo high and prevented the Thoroughbreds from mounting any sustained momentum.
Defensively, the Magicians were just as impressive. Kentucky State struggled to find any rhythm, shooting only 31.5 percent from the field and a mere 18.2 percent from three point range. Active hands and disciplined rotations limited the Thoroughbreds to just six assists while forcing 14 turnovers. Every defensive possession reflected focus and communication, with the Magicians contesting shots and closing out with urgency.
Joshua Whitehurst delivered what may have been his finest performance in a LeMoyne-Owen uniform. Coming off the bench, he erupted for a game high 22 points in just 26 minutes. Whitehurst knocked down six three pointers, igniting the record setting shooting display and energizing his teammates. His impact extended beyond scoring, as he added two rebounds and two blocks, contributing on both ends of the floor. His efficiency and composure helped shift the game firmly in the Magicians' favor during critical stretches.
LaDricus Pittman continued his outstanding run of form, finishing with 20 points along with three rebounds, three assists, and a block. Pittman's steady leadership and ability to score at all three levels once again anchored the team's offensive attack. Whether facilitating for teammates or creating his own shot, he maintained control and tempo throughout the contest.
Andre Walker II joined the perimeter celebration with a well rounded performance. He recorded 12 points, five rebounds, four assists, and a steal while shooting an impressive 66.66 percent from beyond the arc, connecting on four three pointers. Walker's versatility and court awareness added balance to the offensive flow and reinforced the Magicians' depth.
Junior forward Marial Malek anchored the interior with a dominant presence. He finished with eight points, 12 rebounds, two assists, and two steals. Malek's physicality on the glass limited second chance opportunities for Kentucky State and fueled transition opportunities for the Magicians. His contributions embodied the team's commitment to controlling both ends of the floor.
The victory stands as one of the most complete performances of the season. The combination of record breaking shooting, stifling defense, and balanced scoring underscored the growth and cohesion of this Magicians squad. With three consecutive conference wins, momentum continues to build at a critical juncture in the schedule.
LeMoyne-Owen now returns home to face Clark Atlanta University at Bruce Johnson Hall on Thursday, February 19 at 5:00 pm. The match-up presents an opportunity to avenge an earlier road loss to the Panthers and extend the current winning streak to four games. With postseason positioning at stake and the potential to host a first round SIAC playoff game, the Magicians will look to carry their record setting confidence into another pivotal contest. Supporters are encouraged to come out and rally behind the team as it aims to strengthen its playoff standing and continue its remarkable run.
