The Spring Hill College men’s basketball team defeated the University of Mobile Rams 72-59 in the season opener on November 12.
The Badgers tipped off at 7:30 p.m. in the Arthur R. Outlaw Recreation Center. With the Rams leading the game at the end of the first half 31-30, the Badgers came back in the second half to outscore the Rams by 14 points, 42-28. The Badgers were 46 percent from the floor, 60 percent from the three-point line, and landed 100 percent of their free throw shots in the goal.
The game gave the Badgers a 1-0 record and handed the Rams their first season loss. Red Shirt Freshman Beril Kabamba led the Badgers in scoring, recording 25 points, seven rebounds and one block. Not only that, but Kabamba also hit a career-high three buckets from beyond the arc. Behind Kabamba, sophomore Tana Kopa scored 23 points, sophomore Steven Lyles racked up 12 points and redshirt junior Isaiah Veal added six points to the score.
For for the Rams, sophomore DaMariee Jones scored 17 points, five rebounds, three steals and one assist. Sophomore Trent Moye finished with 12 points and sophomore Ezra McKenna helped the Rams with nine points.
Head coach of Badger basketball Craig Kennedy shared his pride in his team following their performance in the game. He said his team showed grit and character after being down in the first half.
“It is a great feeling anytime we win, but particularly against Mobile,” Kennedy said. “They push us to be better because of the emotions and rivalry.”
SHC senior cheerleader Codi Clemmons reflected on the importance of the win. “After three years of cheering for the Badgers, this was probably the most memorable game I’ve had an opportunity to cheer at,” Clemmons said. “There was so much support from the fans, the gym was so loud with fans encouraging the Badgers to victory.”
The Badgers have won three out of four games against the UM Rams. The Badgers’ next two games will be at home. They will take on Pensacola Christian Eagles on November 15, at 7 p.m. and Flagler College on November 19, at 4 p.m.
For more information about Badger athletics, visit SHC Athletics.
