Tuesday March 19th, 2024 1:26AM

Smith hits 2nd straight game-winner as UNG downs USC-Aiken

By AccessWDUN

DAHLONEGA — Former North Hall standout Ebo Smith put up another game-winning basket in the North Georgia men's basketball's one-point defeat of USC Aiken, 80-79, Saturday afternoon in Memorial Hall.

An intense brawl, both teams went back-and-forth in both halves. Former Dawson County standout Tyler Dominy, former Gainesvile High standout Shaquan Cantrell and Lanre Olatunji led the Nighthawks in a tight first half against USC Aiken. Both teams were solid on offense and defense, making it hard for either team to pull away, but the Nighthawks won the period, 36-35.

Cantrell came out strong in the second half driving to the basket for a layup, setting the tone for the second period. The senior led his team with a total of 23 points.

With under a minute left on the clock, UNG lead 78-77. USC Aiken immediately put up a jump shot to reclaim the lead, 79-78. UNG with the ball again, Smith saw his opportunity to drive to the basket for the game-winning layup.

This win puts North Georgia at 10-11 overall, and 8-7 in the Peach Belt Conference.

NOTES
- Three other UNG players finished in double figures: Tyler Dominy (13), Ebo Smith (12), and Lanre Olatunji (10).

- Markus Terry led the Pacers with 17 points.

- The Nighthawks shot 20-of-30 from the charity stripe in the contest.

NEXT UP
UNG will resume play on February 7 on the road at Young Harris. Tipoff is set for 7:30 p.m. The game will be broadcast through ESPN3 as part of the NCAA Division II Basketball Showcase. Glory 1330 will carry the UNG broadcast on the radio with Craig Corbin and Lee Glenn on the call.

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