FULTON, Miss. – The Indians established an early lead and weathered a second-half push from Southwest Mississippi Community College to secure a 79-73 victory.
The Indians dominated the first half, outscoring the Bears 42-26. Southwest Mississippi fought back with a 47-point second half, closing the gap in the final minutes.
AJ Dent anchored the effort with a double-double, tallying 16 points and 13 rebounds while also dishing out five assists. Damarion Winston led all scorers for Itawamba with 17 points, converting 9-of-10 free throws to keep the Bears at bay.
The Indians outrebounded the Bears 42-34, including 11 offensive boards that led to key second-chance points. Marcel Bridges contributed a well-rounded effort with 15 points and 10 rebounds, helping to seal the win down the stretch.