Second Win for Men's Basketball in Home Opener

By Alden Di Dio

SOUTH PRINCE GEORGE, VA — The Richard Bland College men's basketball team won their 2019-20 home opener 69-55 over Wake Tech Community College on Monday night.

The Statesmen move to 2-1 on the season and will travel to Northern Virginia Community College on Wednesday, November 6 at 7 pm. 

With the Statesmen coming off their first win on the road, the team was seeking a win on their own turf to open the season. Starting off the first half, the Statesmen fought off a strong Wake Tech offense. RBC was falling behind early in the first half 24-17. However, with communication and teamwork, the Statesmen were quickly able to take the lead. At the end of the half, RBC was leading 41-32. 

In the second half, the Statesmen kept the lead by making strong drives to the basket and taking full advantage of their free-throw opportunities. The Statesmen were shooting about 80% from the free-throw line on Monday night. Also, RBC only allowed 23 points from Wake Tech and added another 28 points to the scoreboard.  

Key players like Kenneth Southerland (16 points), Savion Helm (14 points), and Antonio Puaauli-Pelham (8 points) made it possible for the Statesmen to take the W at home.