In a hard-fought battle that stretched into overtime, the Rhodes Lynx were edged out by the Millikin Big Blue (67-59) on December 29, 2024, in Memphis, TN. Though the game ended in defeat, several standout performances and key moments made it an exciting contest for Rhodes.

Key Performers:

• Trevor Lombard (14 points, 5 rebounds): Lombard was the offensive spark for Rhodes, particularly in the first half. He hit key 3-pointers and kept his team close throughout.
• Kaleb Green (13 points, 5 rebounds): Green had a solid outing, including a crucial 3-pointer in the second half to keep Rhodes within striking distance.
• Shawn Jones Jr. (9 points, 6 rebounds): Jones made his impact known on both ends of the court, adding valuable rebounds and scoring in crucial moments.
• Phil Dotson (12 points, 3 rebounds): Dotson provided consistent scoring off the bench, helping the Lynx stay in the game.
• Jack Dempsey (4 points, 11 rebounds): Dempsey was a key presence in the paint, pulling down 11 rebounds.

The Lynx came out with energy in the opening period, keeping pace with Millikin. Trevor Lombard was the catalyst for Rhodes, pouring in 14 points, including three 3-pointers. His scoring kept Rhodes within striking distance as they trailed Millikin by just one point at the break, 28-27. Alongside Lombard, Kaleb Green also made his presence felt, contributing 7 points in the first half. The team shot well from beyond the arc, hitting 50% of their three-point attempts (6-12), which helped them stay competitive against the Big Blue.

The second half was a back-and-forth affair, with both teams battling for control. Kaleb Green took over early, adding another 6 points to his total and helping Rhodes tie the game at several points. But Millikin was persistent, providing consistent offense for the Big Blue. Rhodes, despite struggles in shooting from long range (just 2-11 from three in the second half), managed to stay in the game thanks to solid rebounding and contributions from Shawn Jones Jr. and Phil Dotson.

At the end of regulation, the game was tied 54-54, and the stage was set for overtime.

Unfortunately for Rhodes, the overtime period was where they faltered. Despite an early chance to gain momentum, the Lynx could not get their offense flowing. They struggled to convert from the field, going just 1-7 in overtime, and 0-5 from three. Millikin, on the other hand, made the most of their free throws, hitting 7-of-9 in the extra period to secure the win.

Team Statistics:
- 24 points in the paint 
- 17 points off turnovers
- 14 bench points

Looking Forward: Rhodes College vs. Hendrix College

On Wednesday, January 8th, Rhodes College will take on Hendrix College at 3:00 PM in Conway, Arkansas to begin SAA play. 

Historical Matchup:

This will be the 33rd time in history these two teams will be meeting. The Lynx are currently 20-13 against the Warriors, with its last matchup being on December 6th, 2024 where the Lynx won 87-65.