Bears drop a heartbreaker to the Mississippi Gulf Coast Bulldogs

Thursday, January 9, 2025: Men's Basketball 

Baton Rouge, LA   

In an exciting matchup at the Bonne Sante Wellness Center, the Baton Rouge Bears faced off against the Mississippi Gulf Coast Bulldogs, culminating in a thrilling finish in the final seconds. The Bulldogs converted two free throws with just moments remaining, securing an 85-83 lead. The Bears had a chance to clinch victory, but their three-point attempt fell short, sealing the Bulldogs' win. 

The game began with a competitive exchange of baskets and lead changes. After a 7-7 tie at the 16:23 mark, the Bulldogs executed a 10-2 run, building an eight-point lead at 17-9 with 12 minutes left in the first half. They extended their advantage to nine points, reaching a score of 25-16, which would be their largest lead in the opening half. However, the Bears responded with a 15-5 run, narrowing the margin to just one point at 30-29. Kialen Phillips then gave the Bears a lead with a jump shot, making the score 31-30. The first half concluded with the Bears ahead, 40-38. 

The second half continued to be intense and competitive. In the opening two minutes, the game experienced three lead changes and two ties. With the score tied at 45, the Bulldogs took advantage of defensive lapses by the Bears to initiate a 16-4 run, surging to an 11-point lead at 61-50 with 14:10 remaining. The Bears benefited from a significant contribution from freshman point guard Dylan Dominique, who scored 12 points in the second half and played a crucial role in boosting the Bears' offensive performance. With 7:22 left, the Bears closed the gap to just one point at 69-68 after a jumper by Dominique. However, the Bulldogs quickly regained the lead. The Bears continued to fight back, and a steal leading to a layup by Dominique brought them within one point again at 76-75 with 3:36 on the clock. The game was tied at 79 when Kialen Phillips grabbed a rebound and made a putback shot. As the game entered its final moments, the Bulldogs were fouled with 6.6 seconds remaining, tied at 83. They converted both free throws, taking an 85-83 lead. The Bears advanced the ball down the court, but their three-point shot attempt to win the game did not succeed, finalizing the Bulldogs' victory. 

Jabbari Berry led the Bulldogs with a game-high 25 points, while Kaue Kalinowski contributed 20 points. Kialen Phillips was the leading scorer for the Bears with 21 points. Notably, both teams had three players score in double figures. 

With this loss, the Bears' record fell to 6-8, while the Bulldogs improved to 10-4 for the season. Historically, the Bulldogs lead the all-time series against the Bears with 19 wins and six losses. 

Bears Highlights: 

Kialen Phillips led the Bears with 21 points and 16 rebounds. 

Awak Machar added 13 points and 5 rebounds. 

Dylan Dominique came off the bench to score 12 points with 2 rebounds and 2 steals. 

The Bears will return to action on Tuesday, January 14, as they prepare to face the Baton Rouge Post Grad Aces at 7:30 PM in the Bonne Sante Wellness Center. 

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