GADSDEN, Ala. - Coastal Alabama - South Men's Basketball opened Alabama Community College Conference (ACCC) Division I play on the road Thursday night, Jan. 15, but came up short in a 96-87 loss at Gadsden State (Ala.). The loss is the first for the 'Yotes since returning from winter break, with the overall record falling to 5-11.

How It Happened

The Coyotes battled throughout the night and trailed by just two at halftime, 42-40, before Gadsden State used a strong second half to pull away. Coastal - South scored 47 points after the break but couldn't overcome shooting struggles from the field, finishing the night at 36.3% overall and 20.0% from three-point range. 

Makhi Jones led all scorers with a strong 28 points, adding eight rebounds to pace the 'Yotes. BJ Cooks followed with 22 points, while Jaden Champion chipped in 14 off the bench. Tyler Rivers provided a strong presence on the glass with a team-high 12 rebounds, and the Coyotes finished with 39 total rebounds on the night. Josh Williams, top scorer in the ACCC coming into conference play, was held to nine points and two rebounds.

Despite converting 25-of-34 attempts at the free-throw line, Coastal - South was unable to slow Gadsden State's offensive surge in the final 20 minutes, as the hosts scored 54 second-half points to secure the conference-opening win.

ACCC Action Rolls Into the Jack

The Coyotes will look to bounce back as ACCC D-I play continues, aiming to turn the page quickly after a competitive road test to open league action. Coastal - South is set to host Lawson State (Ala.) next, scheduled for 7:30 p.m. CT on Monday evening, Jan. 19.

 

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