THOMASVILLE, Ga. — The Life University men's basketball team soared to an 88-75 victory over Thomas University Thursday evening, dominating from start to finish. The Running Eagles established a commanding lead early, finishing the first half with a 48-23 advantage and never turned back.
The Running Eagles hit their stride midway through the first half, building a lead that ballooned to as many as 33 points early in the second half. Chaze Harris led the charge with 17 points, nine rebounds, and six assists, delivering a stellar all-around performance.
Srdjan Popovich was a force from beyond the arc, draining five three-pointers en route to 15 points. Ladarron Cleveland contributed 11 points and made his presence felt on defense with four steals. Dara Olonade and Cortez Johnson added 15 and nine points respectively, as Life's reserves played an integral part in the win with 35 points off the bench.
The Running Eagles shot an efficient 50% from the field and 36.4% from three-point range. Their defense was equally impressive, forcing 14 turnovers and converting them into 13 points. Despite a spirited 52-point second half by Thomas, Life's early dominance ensured their victory.
The game started with the Running Eagles setting an aggressive pace. Tyreke Johnson got Life on the board early with two free throws, followed by a layup from Chaze Harris, giving the Running Eagles a quick 4-2 lead. Dara Olonade added a dunk at the 15:51 mark, and Will Freeman drained two free throws shortly after, pushing the lead to 9-2.
Life U then continued to build their lead, largely due to sharp shooting from beyond the arc. Ladarron Cleveland hit back-to-back three-pointers, and Freeman added another, giving the Running Eagles a 29-10 advantage. Srdjan Popovich contributed with a trio of three-pointers, helping Life close the first half with a commanding 48-23 lead.
Chaze Harris was a force throughout the game, finishing with 17 points on 8-of-12 shooting, nine rebounds, and six assists. Popovich ended the game with 15 points, all from beyond the arc, and added five assists.
The second half saw Thomas attempt a comeback, scoring 52 points, but the Running Eagles maintained their composure. Cortez Johnson added six points in the second half, finishing with nine points and four rebounds. Dara Olonade contributed 15 points and one block, continuing his consistent performance inside the paint.
The Running Eagles' defense was key to their victory, forcing 14 turnover, seven steals, and three blocks, disrupting Thomas' offensive flow. Despite being outscored in the paint 42-36, Life's perimeter shooting and defensive pressure proved decisive.
The Running Eagles shot 50% from the field and 36.4% from three-point range, with 12 made three-pointers.
With the victory, Life University improved their record to 13-4 overall and 6-2 in conference play. The Running Eagles return to SSAC play hosting Brewton-Parker on Thursday, January 16th in the Eagles' Nest.
