TUSKEGEE, Ala. — With the clock winding down and the game hanging in the balance, RJ Walker rose confidently and knocked down the decisive jumper that put Tuskegee men's basketball ahead for good, lifting the Golden Tigers to a thrilling 59-57 SIAC victory over LeMoyne-Owen on Thursday night inside the Daniel "Chappie" James Center.
Walker's basket capped a tense final stretch that saw both teams trade defensive stops and missed opportunities as the final minutes ticked away.
Following the go-ahead score, Tuskegee locked in defensively, forcing LeMoyne-Owen into a contested look on its final possession to secure the hard-fought win in front of the home crowd.
The closing sequence was emblematic of a game defined by physical play and defensive toughness. Neither team was able to establish sustained offensive rhythm for long stretches, but Tuskegee's composure late and ability to capitalize at the free-throw line proved decisive. The Golden Tigers finished the night converting critical free throws while denying LeMoyne-Owen clean looks down the stretch.
Tuskegee was led offensively by Khalil Genwright, who finished with 16 points, including key perimeter makes that kept the Golden Tigers within striking distance throughout the second half. Kusamae Draper added 12 points and six rebounds, providing consistent production in the paint and drawing contact around the rim.
Tuskegee was led offensively by Kusamae Draper, who finished with 15 points and eight rebounds, while Khalil Genwright added 12 points, including an 8-for-10 night at the free throw line.
Anthony Wright chipped in 11 points and seven rebounds, while Walker added eight points and three steals, highlighted by his late game-winner.
As a team, Tuskegee shot 43.2 percent from the field and relied heavily on attacking the basket, finishing 19-for-27 from the free throw line.
Defensively, the Golden Tigers limited LeMoyne-Owen to 34.5 percent shooting, contesting shots on the perimeter and protecting the lane when it mattered most.
LeMoyne-Owen was paced by LaDricus Pittman, who scored 16 points, along with Gerrard Living and Andre Walker II, who both added 13 points, keeping the Magicians within one possession until the final horn.
With the win, Tuskegee adds an important SIAC victory and continues to build momentum during conference play.
Up Next
Tuskegee returns to action on Saturday, Jan. 10, hosting Lane at 3 p.m. inside the Daniel "Chappie" James Center.
How to Follow the Golden Tigers
For complete information on Tuskegee Golden Tigers Men's Basketball, visit GoldenTigerSports.com and follow the team's social media channels on Twitter, Instagram and Facebook.
