FRANKFORT, Ky. - Kentucky State men's basketball relied on precision from the free-throw line and a resilient second-half rally to defeat Savannah State 78-75 on Saturday night.
 
The Thorobreds capitalized on their opportunities at the charity stripe, finishing 22-of-26 (84.6%) as a team. Five Kentucky State players shot 100% from the line, led by Gregory Melvin, who went 8-of-8, and Dashawn Hall, who finished 4-of-4. In contrast, the Tigers shot 80% from the line, hitting 8-of-10.
 
Melvin anchored the Kentucky State effort with a team-high 18 points and seven rebounds. Terin Wofford contributed 13 points while leading the defensive charge with three steals and two blocks. Blackwell also reached double figures, tallying 13 points and three assists.
 
How It Happened
Kentucky State established early momentum behind Wofford, who ignited a 5-0 run in the opening 30 seconds with a 3-pointer followed by a dunk. The Thorobreds maintained their edge throughout the period, heading into halftime with a 40-38 lead.
 
The second half shifted into a game of runs. Savannah State opened the period with a 21-9 surge, eventually building an 11-point cushion at 59-48 with 13:19 remaining. Refusing to go away, Kentucky State chipped at the deficit. A clutch 3-pointer from Kur Maler and consecutive baskets by James Boyd energized the home crowd and brought the Thorobreds within striking distance.
 
With 2:00 left on the clock, Hall delivered the play of the game, stealing the ball and finishing a fast-break dunk to give Kentucky State its first lead of the late stages at 74-71. After Savannah State's Zyere Edwards answered with a jumper to put the Tigers back up by one, Melvin drew a foul on the following possession and sank both free throws to make it 76-75.
 
Keon Henderson iced the victory with two final free throws with 13 seconds remaining. A last-second heave from the Tigers fell short, securing the 78-75 win for the Thorobreds.
 
Up Next
Kentucky State travels to Atlanta to face Southern Intercollegiate Athletic Conference opponent Morehouse College on Monday, Feb. 3. Tipoff is scheduled for 7 p.m.
 
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