Box Score
Augusta, Ga.— Senior forward
Julius Barton notched his first double-double of the season as Kentucky State University men's basketball claimed an 88-76 victory over Paine College at the Heal Complex on Wednesday night.
"I would like to celebrate, but I'm already thinking about tomorrow when we head to Claflin," said head coach
Jamaal Jackson.
The Thorobreds (2-3, 1-0) notched their first SIAC win of the season and will look to continue to add to the total with games against Claflin University and Benedict College later in the week.
KSU continued to set the pace as the top scoring offense in the SIAC, but it was the play of Barton leading the way for the Thorobreds in the victory. The West Memphis, Arkansas native recorded a season-high 24 points and a season-high in rebounds with 14. But, it was Barton's highlight dunk catching the attention of the fans in attendance.
With 12:50 remaining in the second half and KSU leading 49-48, Barton took a pass from junior guard
Dorian Jordan as he sliced into the paint from the top of the key. Barton launched two steps from the free throw for a one-handed slam over a defender, drawing the foul with the thunderous dunk.
"We talked about it in the locker room," said Barton. "Dorian (Jordan) told me to give him a signal to let him know when I was with him. I did, and he fired a no-look pass to me in stride. I caught the pass and just took off to reach my full potential. It's what everyone wanted, and I gave it to them."
Jordan finished his night like Barton with a double-double, accounting for 17 points and 12 assists, playing all 40 minutes for the Thorobreds.
"Dorian (Jordan) is an excellent point guard," said Jackson. "He gets in the lane, he's quick, and plays with heart. But, he sets the tone for our team as a whole. Tonight everyone shared the ball and played unselfishly. When we play like we did, the numbers add up."
KSU will head to Claflin for a quick turnaround, and will tipoff with the Panthers at 7:30 p.m. ET on Thursday, immediately following the KSU women's game.
