Central State University Survives Hostile Environment, Defeats Kentucky State 91-85

In a thrilling matchup on the road, the Central State University Marauders pulled out a hard-fought 91-85 victory over Kentucky State, despite a raucous homecoming crowd at the William Exum HPER Center in Frankfort, KY. The win improves Central State's record to 11-10 overall and 7-7 in the SIAC, while Kentucky State drops to 10-10 overall and 7-8 in conference play. The Marauders have now won 4 games in a row, and will look to stay hot in final push for playoff positioning.  

Central State was led by the dynamic performance of Ramar Pryor, who poured in a game-high 26 points, hitting 8 of 13 from the field and 10 of 15 from the free-throw line. Pryor also contributed 4 rebounds and 2 assists in a stellar 38 minutes of play. Despite poor free throw shooting the Marauders were able to hold off a late surge by the Thoroughbreds.  The Marauders will need to get better from the line moving forward to win in tight games.  The Marauders shot a cool 18-36 from the foul line. 

Alongside Pryor, Steven Key II continued his strong play, finishing with 19 points, 4 rebounds, and 5 assists in 37 minutes. Brandon Scott also made significant contributions, scoring 14 points, while Javantae Randle added 7 points and 8 rebounds. The Marauders showed resilience, especially in the second half, where they shot an impressive 62.1% from the field.

Kentucky State's top performers were Aziel Blackwell and Lavar Miller Jr., who both poured in 26 points each. Blackwell struggled with his shooting, going 9 of 26 from the field but managed to knock down 3 of 7 from beyond the arc. Miller Jr. was more efficient, shooting 10 of 21 from the field, including 5 of 13 from three-point range. However, despite their efforts, the Thoroughbreds could not overcome Central State's balanced offensive attack.

The game was a back-and-forth affair, with 8 ties and 6 lead changes. Central State's defense was critical, holding Kentucky State to 42.9% shooting overall, while the Marauders capitalized on fast break opportunities, scoring 29 fast break points compared to 33 for Kentucky State.

A key to Central State's victory was their dominance in the paint, outscoring Kentucky State 52-32 in points in the paint. Despite Kentucky State's 14 second-chance points, the Marauders showed poise and grit, particularly in the final minutes when they held off the Thoroughbreds' push to tie the game.

With this win, Central State keeps their playoff hopes alive as they continue their quest for a strong finish to the season. 

Key Stats:

• Central State:

  • Ramar Pryor: 26 PTS, 4 REB, 2 AST
  • Steven Key II: 19 PTS, 4 REB, 5 AST
  • Brandon Scott: 14 PTS, 9 REB, 3 AST
  • Team FG: 32-55 (58.2%), 3PT: 4-12 (33.3%), FT: 18-36 (50.0%)

• Kentucky State:

  • Aziel Blackwell: 26 PTS, 5 REB, 2 AST
  • Lavar Miller Jr.: 26 PTS, 5 REB, 2 AST
  • Team FG: 30-70 (42.9%), 3PT: 8-25 (32.0%), FT: 17-26 (65.4%)

Final Score: Central State 91, Kentucky State 85

Attendance: 2,076

Up Next: Central State will look to keep their win streak and momentum going as they prepare for their next matchup on the road again in Memphis vs LeMoyne-Owen and Lane College as the continue their push for the SIAC playoffs.