Photo by: Carson Ming, Photo & Visual Editor

By: Geondre Baldwin, Video Director

The Morehouse Maroon Tigers sealed another win against the Allen University Yellow Jackets in Forbes Arena. The team’s suffocating defense as well as a strong offense presence throughout the game led to the Maroon Tigers 72-52 victory.

Right out of the gate, the Maroon Tigers took advantage of forced field goals by the Yellow Jackets. Throughout the first half, the momentum shifted back and forth between both teams, as the Yellow Jackets showcased their unstoppable floaters and final second field goals. A great offensive showing put the Maroon Tigers up by six the start of the second half.

The pressure did not stop there for the Maroon Tigers. They ramped up their defensive intensity and began to suffocate the Yellow Jackets offense. The team’s impressive ball distribution led to big time plays to establish dominance on both ends of the floor.

The Maroon Tigers’ relentless defensive pressure was the defining factor of the game. The team forced multiple 10-second violations and turnovers that disrupted Allen’s offensive rhythm.

“Coach values defense heavily and we have been lacking this year” says Senior guard Chimezie Okeke, who spoke on the relentlessness of the Maroon Tiger defense. “This is one of the games where we had that chip on our shoulder and [had to] prove that we are one of the best defensive teams in the nation.”

Cedric Taylor III led the charge for Morehouse with a dominant performance, posting 29 points and 10 rebounds. He was a force on both ends of the floor, knocking down key free throws, crashing the boards, and finishing strong in the paint. His and-one layup at the tail end of the second half helped seal the game, solidifying Morehouse’s control.

We spoke to Cedrick Taylor III after his performance to discuss his mindset coming into the game. “I always try to let the game come to me,” Taylor said. “I would like to think that’s the type of player I am.”

Amahd Decker also contributed key plays throughout the night, including a fadeaway in the first half and a tough finish at the rim in the final minutes. Decker finished with 12 points and six boards.

With this win, the Maroon Tigers improved to 12-10 on the season. The team will face the Albany State Golden Rams, who they have taken an overtime loss to this season. The Golden Rams will host the game at HBE Basketball Arena on February 8th at 4 p.m.

Copy Edited by Rece Allen, Sports Editor