Pilots Fall in Saturday Exhibition with North Texas
Denton, Texas— In a post-Christmas exhibition game, the LSU Shreveport Pilots' Men's basketball team faced a tough challenge against the North Texas Mean Green, ultimately falling with a final score of 57-80. Given the game's exhibition status it will not have an effect on the Pilots overall record which will remain at 9-1.
The Pilots encountered an early deficit in the first half as the Mean Green swiftly ran up the score, establishing a commanding 17-point lead, 10-27.
With six minutes remaining in the first half, the Pilots initiated a spirited comeback, closing the gap that the Mean Green had developed. Putting up 13 points in just four minutes, the Pilots managed to bring the game within four points as the clock expired on the first half. At halftime, the Pilots found themselves trailing 31-34. They went 11-32 from the field, connecting on two three-pointers, and were perfect at the free-throw line, going 7-for-7. Meanwhile, the Mean Green were hot on offense, shooting 13-35 from the field with five three-pointers and making three free throws. Despite the deficit, the Pilots outrebounded UNT 23-21 in the half.
However, the second half proved to be a challenging battle for the Pilots as the Mean Green were determined to maintain their lead. The Pilots were outscored 26-46 in the half, going 10-for-29 from the field with two additional three-pointers and 4-of-5 made free throws. The Mean Green continued their offensive efficiency, shooting 15-for-35 from the field, including seven three-pointers, and making 9-of-12 free throws.
In a game where scoring was a collective effort, Paul King emerged as the lone Pilot to reach double digits, leading the team with 12 points. King went 5-for-11 from the field and a perfect 2-for-2 at the free-throw line.
While the Pilots faced challenges against a determined North Texas Mean Green, the exhibition game provided valuable insights and opportunities for improvement as they continue their season.
The Pilots will be back in action in the new year as they take on the Mustangs of conference opponent Southwest. Tip-off is set for 8:30pm CT Hobbs, New Mexico on January 4th.
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