Marauders' Comeback Effort Falls Short in 70-67 Loss to Benedict

Columbia, SC (January 2, 2025) – Central State University's men's basketball team mounted a valiant second-half comeback, but it ultimately fell short as Benedict held on for a 70-67 victory at HRC Arena. The loss drops the Marauders to 5-8 overall and 2-5 in SIAC play, while Benedict improves to 3-9 and 3-3 in conference action.

Central State struggled out of the gates, trailing 40-29 at halftime. The Marauders shot just 35.3% from the field in the first half, including a dismal 1-for-10 from beyond the arc. Despite these shooting woes, Central State managed to stay within striking distance.

In the second half, Central State showed resilience and began to chip away at Benedict's lead. Behind a balanced offensive attack, including a team-high 18 points from Ramar Pryor, the Marauders tightened the gap, outscoring Benedict 38-30 in the final period. Central State's shooting improved to 40.0% from the field in the second half, with Pryor leading the way with 11 points after the break.

Khalil Luster also contributed significantly, finishing with 13 points, 3 assists, and 2 rebounds. However, the Marauders were ultimately undone by their early struggles and Benedict's ability to make key plays when it mattered most.

Benedict was led by Tariq Shepherd, who posted 15 points, 4 rebounds, and 4 assists, while Caleb Hymon added 14 points and 4 rebounds. The Tigers shot a solid 52.1% from the field, including 5-for-11 from three-point range. They also capitalized on Central State's mistakes, forcing 16 turnovers that resulted in 13 points off turnovers.

In a game marked by defensive pressure and physical play, Central State's ability to fight back was evident in the second half. The Marauders cut the lead to as few as two points in the final minutes.  

The Marauders outscored Benedict in the paint 36-32  and also held a slight advantage in second-chance points, 11-8. However, Benedict's  free-throw shooting (65.2% for the game) and superior shooting in the first half gave them enough of a cushion to hang on down the stretch.  The Marauders continue to struggle from the free-throw line, finishing just 9-19.  

Key Performers:

• Central State (OH):

  • Ramar Pryor: 18 points, 7 rebounds, 4 assists
  • Khalil Luster: 13 points, 2 rebounds, 3 assists
  • Javantae Randle: 9 points, 5 rebounds
  • Steven Key II: 8 points, 8 rebounds, 3 assists

• Benedict:

  • Tariq Shepherd: 15 points, 4 rebounds, 4 assists
  • Caleb Hymon: 14 points, 3 rebounds, 4 assists
  • Donte Whymns: 14 points, 6 rebounds, 2 assists

Central State will look to regroup quickly, with their next game slated January 4th against Allen.  

Story by: Brad Kocher