Bears are LCCAC Champions with victory over Southern Shreveport

Saturday, February 15, 2025: Basketball 

Baton Rouge, LA  

The Baton Rouge Bears faced off against the Southern Shreveport Port City Jags in an LCCAC game. With this victory, the Bears would clinch the LCCAC conference title. The Bears dominated the second half, winning the game 95 to 76, securing the LCCAC championship and a berth in the Region XXIII Tournament.

In the first half, both teams struggled to find effective offensive strategies against each other's defensive schemes. With 13 minutes left in the half, the Bears held a 16 to 9 lead. Midway through the first half, they extended their advantage to 28-17, building an 11-point lead. The Jags responded, closing the half on a 13-7 run to narrow the gap to 49-41 at halftime. 

In the second half, the Bears maintained their pressure on the Jags, limiting them to single possessions for several plays. The Jags managed to pull within nine points at 69-60 with 10 minutes remaining. However, the Bears outscored the Jags 26-16 in the final stretch. This crucial run was powered by Dylan Dominique, who scored nine points during that period. Ultimately, the Bears defeated the Jags 95 to 76, securing both the victory and the LCCAC title. 

Awak Machar led the Bears in scoring with 18 points. The Bears had four student athletes score in double figures, Machar, Phillips, Dominique and McCarthy. The Jags were led in scoring by Latrell Holly Jr who had a game high 35 points. The Jags had two student athletes score in double figures, Holly Jr and Vinson. 

With this victory, the Bears improved their record to 16-8 overall and 4-0 in conference play. Meanwhile, Southern Shreveport's record fell to 9-10 overall and 1-3 in the conference. The Jags still lead the all-time series against the Bears, holding 24 wins to Baton Rouge's 21 losses. 

Bears Highlights:  

Awak Machar led the Bears with 18 points  

Dylan Dominique added 16 points and 3 assists. 

Kialen Phillips added 12 points, 3 rebounds, with 2 steals  

Courtney McCarthy scored 10 points, with  4 rebounds 

Before the game, the Bears honored their 11 sophomores for their dedication and commitment to the growth of the Bears Basketball program. The sophomores honored included: Jack King, Awak Machar, Laron Louis Jr., Troy Joseph, Courtney McCarthy, DJ Douglas, Jace Patin, Kialen Phillips, Imran Deen, Harry Johnson, and Dashaunte Cormier-Bellard. 

The Bears will continue their homestand on Wednesday, February 26, when they face conference rivals, the Delgado Dolphins, at the Bonne Sante Wellness Center. The tip-off is set for 7:30 PM.  

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