On Saturday, December 28th, Rhodes College triumphed in a nail-biting 72-71 victory over East Texas Baptist University, extending their winning streak with a clutch performance down the stretch. The game was a back-and-forth battle, with 14 lead changes and 10 ties, but it was Rhodes's depth and balanced offense that proved decisive in the final moments.

Key Performers:

• Trevor Lombard led Rhodes with 15 points, finishing with a perfect 5-of-5 and 3-3 from deep. 
• Phil Dotson came off the bench to contribute 15 points, including three 3-pointers.
• Kaleb Green added 14 points and 3 rebounds. 
• Max Adelman chipped in with 9 points.

 

ETBU played strong, scoring 34 points before halftime. Rhodes College, however, displayed an efficient offense, shooting 57.89% from the floor, with Trevor Lombard leading the way. Lombard was a perfect 5-of-5 in the first half, contributing 15 points, including 3-of-3 from behind the arc. Kaleb Green also had a strong half, adding 14 points. Rhodes' fast and sharp shooting kept them in contention, despite a few turnovers. The halftime score reflected the tight nature of the game, with Rhodes holding a narrow advantage.

As the second half unfolded, both teams continued to exchange blows, with neither side able to pull away. ETBU kept the pressure on however, The Lynx's bench came alive in the second half, providing critical support to the team.

Rhodes shot a solid 50% from the field and 50% from three in the second half, which helped them keep pace. With key plays from Dotson (15 points), Adelman (9 points), and Jack Dempsey (8 points), Rhodes found the offensive balance they needed. Despite the Tigers improving their free throw shooting to 82.35% in the second half, it wasn't enough to overcome the offensive firepower of Rhodes.

The lead changed hands multiple times, with both teams battling it out for every point. Rhodes capitalized on their shooting efficiency, finishing the game with a 53.7% field goal percentage. In the final moments, with Rhodes leading the game 70-69, Green made two crucial free throws, putting them up by two. After a tense final possession, ETBU was unable to convert on a last-second 3 point play to tie it up, leading Rhodes to a 72-71 victory. 

Team Statistics:
- 24 points in the paint
- 26 bench points
- 11 points off turnovers

Looking Forward: Rhodes College vs. Millikin University 

On Sunday, December 29th, Rhodes College will take on Millikin University at 3:00 PM in Mallory Gymnasium

Historical Matchup:

This will be just the third time these two teams will be meeting. The Lynx are currently 2-0 against the Big Blue, with its last matchup dating back to 2019.