Frankfort, Ky.—Senior forward Julius Barton racked up a season-high 34 points and snagged a season-high 14 rebounds as Kentucky State University men's basketball dropped a 92-90 contest to Albany State University on Thursday night at the Exum Center.

"Julius had a big night for us, and I texted before the game tell him what I wanted out of him," said head coach Jamaal Jackson. "I told him I wanted 20 (points) and 12 (rebounds), he surpassed what I asked of him because he played the type of game he's capable of, and we need that from him every night in this conference."

The Thorobreds (2-9, 1-3) have now dropped three consecutive SIAC matchups after starting the season 1-0 with a win at Paine College. The Rams (6-6, 1-1-) have won four of their last six contest.

Followed by Barton's stellar performance was senior guard Malcolm Smith's 16 points, including a clutch three-point bucket from the left wing to tie the game at 90, with a little over a minute left in regulation. Junior guard Reggie Breeden came close to a triple-double before he fouled out with over five minutes remaining. The Louisville native finished with 10 rebounds, eight points, and a team-leading seven assists.

KSU will look to end the current losing streak marked by seven games, with a quick turnaround on Saturday, as the Thorobreds will host Fort Valley State at 3:00 p.m. ET at the Exum Center. Admission to the game is free to all fans who plan to attend.