The rivalry between the Georgia State Panthers (16-8, 7-4 Sun Belt) and the Louisiana Ragin Cajuns (14-10, 5-6 Sun Belt) had a different feel to it on Friday night. Maybe it was the fact it was a nationally televised game, but the fans inside the Cajundome were into the action like it was a heavyweight boxing match. That really helped the Cajuns when they needed it and were able to snap a three-game losing streak with a 76-72 win.
How It Happened
The Cajuns got off to a strong start with three straight three-pointers to get out to an early 11-6 at the first media timeout. They were able to control the ballgame in the first half in large part because of the Panthers committing seven turnovers and were able to take a 41-30 lead into the break.
That lead quickly evaporated in the second half off of a 15-0 run to start the second half to give the Panthers a six-point lead with 14:25 left in regulation. After the under 16 media timeout, it was an absolute slugfest with the lead changing hands several times in the final five minutes, but a big three-pointer from Trajan Wesley helped the Cajuns keep it out of reach and snap a three-game losing streak.
Big Number: 87
The key to victory on Friday night was determined at the free throw line with the Cajuns only missing three shots compared to Georgia State shooting 64 percent from the charity stripe.
Player of the Game: JaKeenan Gant
Gant has been the player of the game for what seems like the entire season. That being said, the man is put on a show for the fans with 23 points and five boards before fouling out in the final moments His absence really makes it an even more important win for the Cajuns being without him during a crucial point of the ballgame.
Next Up: Saturday vs UL Monroe; Tipoff at 7 pm
-Clint Domingue