BATON ROUGE, LA — What began as a tightly contested first half turned into a celebration inside the F.G. Clark Activity Center as the Southern Jaguars dominated the final 20 minutes to roll past the Bethune-Cookman Wildcats, 73–47, on Saturday afternoon.
Southern outscored Bethune-Cookman 45–23 after halftime, using relentless defensive pressure, efficient shooting, and strong bench production to turn a four-point halftime lead into a runaway victory. The win capped an emotional Senior Day as the Jaguars honored eight seniors: D'Shantae Edwards, Jaylia Reed, Kiana Wilson, Xyllize Harrison, Demonnie Lagway, Olivia Delancy, and managers Jade Blount and Kavyon Harris.
The Jaguars seized full control in the third quarter, erupting for 24 points while holding the Wildcats to just 11. Southern's momentum never slowed, as it followed with a 21-point fourth quarter to close out the contest and improve its SWAC standing.
Keys to the Game
Second-Half Surge
Southern flipped the game coming out of the locker room, shooting over 57 percent in the third quarter while forcing turnovers that fueled a decisive run.
Defensive Pressure
The Jaguars' active hands created 24 Bethune-Cookman turnovers, leading directly to easy transition baskets and open perimeter looks.
Depth and Balance
Southern showcased its depth with multiple players contributing to scoring, rebounds, and defensive energy. The bench provided consistent production and kept pressure on the Wildcats throughout.
By the Numbers
Final Score: Southern 73, Bethune-Cookman 47
Halftime: Southern 28, Bethune-Cookman 24
Second-Half Scoring: Southern 45, Bethune-Cookman 23
Field Goal Percentage: Southern 43.9% | Bethune-Cookman 34.1%
Three-Point Shooting: Southern 8-of-18 (44.4%) | Bethune-Cookman 1-of-5 (20.0%)
Points off Turnovers: Southern 32 | Bethune-Cookman 16
Bench Points: Southern 37 | Bethune-Cookman 17
Largest Lead: Southern by 26 (4th quarter)
Notable Stats & Performances
Jaylia Reed: 14 points, 4 rebounds, 3 assists, 2 steals
Zaria Hurston: 9 points, strong interior presence during the decisive third quarter
Jestiny Dixon: 6 points, 6 rebounds, key energy plays off the bench
Olivia Delancy: 8 points, knocked down timely three-pointers
Southern Bench: Accounted for more than half of the team's scoring (37 points)
Up Next
Southern continues to build momentum heading into the final stretch of the season, as they host the Bethune-Cookman Wildcats on Saturday, February 28th, for Senior Day. The game will be live e on HBCU GO at 12:00 PM.
Tip-off: 6:00 p.m.
Opponent: Alabama State University
Location: Dunn-Oliver Acadome
TV: Hornets Sports Network
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