By: Nick Pope
Box Score TIFTON, Ga. – The Life University men's basketball team picked up a big road win Monday night, defeating Abraham Baldwin Agricultural College 87-76. The Running Eagles used a dominant second-half performance to pull away and secure the victory.
Both teams traded baskets early, with the Stallions taking a brief seven-point lead in the first half. Life U quickly responded, attacking the paint to regain control. Despite only hitting three three-pointers in the game, the Running Eagles made up for it by converting at the free-throw line and dominating inside. A late push from Abraham Baldwin kept the score close, but Life U held a 38-37 lead at the break.
Chaze Harris ignited the offense in the second half, finishing with 22 points, six rebounds, and four assists. He shot an impressive 7-for-7 from the floor after halftime. Dara Olonade was a force in the paint, leading all scorers with 27 points while grabbing seven boards. The Running Eagles found additional production from Srdjan Popovich, who tallied 15 points, and Tyreke Johnson, who added 10 points and four steals.
Defensively, Life U turned up the pressure, forcing 24 turnovers that led to 31 points. The Running Eagles outscored the Stallions 50-38 in the second half, holding them to just 38% shooting from the field. Life U's bench also played a role, adding 13 points to the effort.
Overall, the Running Eagles shot 50% from the field and 73.7% from the free-throw line while scoring 46 points in the paint. Their ability to control the tempo and capitalize on turnovers proved to be the difference.
Up next, Life U looks to build on the win with their final contest of the regular season against Dalton this upcoming Saturday.