JASON BASS – The Corsair
The Pensacola State Men’s Basketball program wrapped up the Famous Dave’s Tip-Off Classic Nov. 6, losing 64-58 against the Faulkner State Community College Sun Chiefs.
Halftime featured the 50th anniversary of men’s basketball at the college. Members of the original team and cheerleaders were introduced.
The Pirates entered the game 1-0 for the tournament defeating Jefferson Davis 79-53 the night before, but were not as fortunate against the faster paced Sun Chiefs to end the tournament 1-1.
Head Coach Pete Pena was able to ignite his offense somewhat in the second half. With his team trailing by 10 midway through, Sophomore Justin Wright, who finished with 14 points and 7 rebounds, successfully knocked down a couple of 3-pointers to bring the Pirates to within 1, but that was as close as they would come all game. Freshman Darren Goodson had 14 points and led the team with 9 rebounds; he was also the only player to shoot over 50 percent for the game.
The Pirates struggled in the first half hitting only 7 out of 24 shots and only one 3 pointer by Freshman Jeremy McKay, who finished with 12 points and 7 rebounds. With a couple players in foul trouble early, the Pirates were just not able match the tempo of the Sun Chiefs who went 12 of 26 from the floor and made two 3-pointers. The Sun Chiefs were able to capitalize off of turnovers scoring 19 points, and hitting 21 of 25 free throws.
