The Morehouse Maroon Tigers defeated rival Clark Atlanta 78–74 on Founder’s Day and Senior Night on Feb. 14 at Frank L. Forbes Arena, fueled by a dominant 27-point performance from forward Josiah Lawson.
The win signaled Morehouse basketball’s comeback and highlighted the team’s grit on a meaningful night at home.
Lawson led all scorers with one of his most efficient games, hitting 5-of-7 from three and providing a timely offensive spark for the Maroon Tigers.
With the win, Morehouse improves to 15–9 overall and strengthens its position in the SIAC conference.
First Half Struggles
Despite the emotional atmosphere, Morehouse basketball faced early adversity against the Clark Atlanta Panthers. Clark Atlanta’s defensive pressure held the Maroon Tigers scoreless for nearly four minutes to open the game, disrupting their offensive rhythm.
Turnovers and rebounding challenges plagued Morehouse in the first half. The Maroon Tigers committed 12 turnovers and were outrebounded 34–28, allowing Clark Atlanta to control the tempo and build a 16-point lead midway through the period.
Clark Atlanta’s defense and physicality forced Morehouse into difficult offensive possessions, putting the Maroon Tigers in a significant early deficit.
Second Half Surge
Morehouse responded in the second half with urgency and composure. The Maroon Tigers opened the period by knocking down three consecutive three-pointers, shifting momentum inside Forbes Arena.
Free throw efficiency and perimeter shooting proved to be decisive factors in the comeback. Morehouse made 21 free throws and 11 threes, staying within striking distance all second half.
After trailing most of the game and facing three lead changes, Morehouse took its first lead late, igniting the Founder’s Day and Senior Night crowd.
Guard Sincere Moore delivered the defining moment of the game, hitting a tough fadeaway jumper to secure the victory and complete the comeback.
Morehouse Sweeps Rival Clark Atlanta
The victory continues Morehouse’s recent dominance in the historic Atlanta rivalry. Morehouse has won four straight over Clark Atlanta, the longest streak in series history.
Morehouse head coach Larry Dixon credited the team’s resilience and identity as key factors in the comeback win.
“We must be great. We’re undersized. We just have to be gritty and tough-minded,” Dixon said.
The Maroon Tigers’ ability to overcome adversity and execute in critical moments reflects the mental toughness Dixon has emphasized throughout the season.
Building Momentum in SIAC Play
The win snaps Morehouse’s two-game losing streak and provides critical momentum as the Maroon Tigers continue conference play.
Meanwhile, Morehouse improves to 15–9 overall and strengthens its position in the SIAC standings as the regular season enters its final stretch.
Now, the Maroon Tigers will look to build on their rivalry victory when they travel to face Kentucky State on Feb. 19 at 7:30 p.m., aiming to carry their momentum forward as postseason play approaches.
