Trojans pull away for win against UAFS Lions

Editor’s note: Story by Jonathan Gipson, sports information director for the University of Arkansas at Fort Smith.
 
STATESBORO, Ga. – It appeared like the University of Arkansas at Fort Smith might be able post its first upset of the Legends Classic early in the second half Friday afternoon against the Troy Trojans.

Trailing by 14 points at halftime, the NCAA Division II Lions reeled off seven unanswered points to fight their way back into the game against the Division I Trojans, but the quick spurt was short-lived.

The Trojans quickly regained control of the game and pushed their lead back to double-digits on their way to a convincing 115-76 win against the Lions at Hanner Fieldhouse in Statesboro, Ga.

UAFS (1-3), which lost to UMass 94-68 in the Legends Classic opener on Nov. 21 in Amherst, Mass., will play host Georgia Southern at 4 p.m. on Saturday in the second of three classic sub-regional games. The game will be broadcast on KFPW-AM 1230 and via the Internet on Sports Hog.

It was the Lions’ most lopsided loss in their four games against Division I opponents this season, including exhibition losses to Saint Louis University and Nebraska. It was the worst loss by the Lions in recent history.

The Lions shot 44% from the field (30 of 69) and sank six 3-pointers (6 of 28) but committed 24 turnovers for the second consecutive game. UAFS also was out-rebounded 47-36.

Junior Josh Simmons of Houston, Texas, hit for 24 points and had eight rebounds to lead the Lions, who have lost three in a row. He also sank three of the Lions’ six 3-pointers. Freshman Jalynn Mitchell of Jonesboro, Ark., had 18 points to round out the Lions’ double-digit scoring.

Troy (3-2) shot a sizzling 54% from the field (43 of 80) and sank 12 3-pointers (12 of 22). The Trojans only committed 14 turnovers.