News Summary
The Augusta University Jaguars celebrated their first Peach Belt Conference victory of the season by defeating the USC Beaufort Sand Sharks 105-96. The game, attended by enthusiastic fifth-graders, saw standout performances from Demetri Gardner and Max Amadasun, who played crucial roles in the team’s success. Augusta demonstrated impressive shooting and effective free-throw strategies, extending their winning streak to six games. As they look forward to facing Converse University next, the Jaguars aim to solidify their position in the conference.
Augusta, Georgia – The Augusta University Jaguars secured their first Peach Belt Conference win of the season with a 105-96 high-scoring victory over the USC Beaufort Sand Sharks on December 18, 2024. The game, which was held at Christenberry Fieldhouse, drew an enthusiastic crowd of around 2,000 fifth-graders who were present for Education Day.
This victory not only marked a crucial moment in the Jaguars’ season but also extended their current winning streak to six games. The performance on the court was highlighted by Demetri Gardner, who led all scorers with a total of 27 points. Max Amadasun also made significant contributions to the team’s success, scoring 19 points and achieving a career-high of 18 rebounds.
In the early stages of the game, Chaeavon Torrance excited the crowd with a powerful dunk, despite receiving a blocking foul shortly thereafter. The Jaguars faced stiff competition in the first half, where USC Beaufort’s aggressive full-court, zone-trap defense tested their skills. However, Augusta responded by effectively breaking through the traps to score high-percentage shots and earning numerous trips to the free-throw line.
During the first half, the Jaguars showcased impressive shooting, hitting 54.3% of their shots from the field and converting 16 of 18 free throws. By halftime, Augusta held a 54-45 lead, buoyed by Gardner’s 14-point contribution, while teammates Amadasun and Evan Joyner each added 11 points.
As the second half unfolded, Augusta emphasized their 3-point shooting strategy, with Gardner knocking down an early shot to extend the lead to 57-45. The Jaguars demonstrated consistent scoring throughout the half, utilizing quick mid-range jumpers to push their lead to as much as 16 points. Despite facing a late-game challenge from USC Beaufort, who managed to narrow the gap to five points with just over three minutes remaining, Augusta maintained their composure to secure the victory.
While Augusta struggled to grab rebounds in the second half, getting out-rebounded 21-16 by USC Beaufort, they made efficient use of their scoring opportunities. John St. Germain III and Evan Joyner contributed with 18 points each, complementing Gardner’s performance. Meanwhile, USC Beaufort’s offense was led by Nolan Paladugu, who scored 18 points, supported by five other teammates who also registered double-digit points.
Overall, Augusta shot an impressive 56.5% from the field, hitting 50% of their 3-point attempts and converting 82% of free throws during the game. In contrast, USC Beaufort struggled with their long-range shooting, making only 12 of 39 attempts for a dismal 31%.
Looking ahead, the Jaguars are set to face Converse University in Spartanburg, South Carolina, on December 21, 2024, at 4 p.m. Coach Dip Metress attributed the team’s ongoing winning streak to a combination of factors, including improved health, reduced turnovers, and effective free-throw shooting performance, which has remained above 75% for the season.
This win is a significant boost for the Jaguars as they move deeper into the conference season, showcasing their potential as strong competitors in the Peach Belt Conference.
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