JACKSON, Tenn. — The University of West Alabama Men's Basketball Team secured a 79-69 victory over Union University on Thursday night at Fred DeLay Gymnasium. 

UWA (21-3, 16-2 GSC) was efficient on the offensive end, shooting 52 percent from the floor and 50 percent from three in their 10-point win over Union (9-14, 5-12 GSC). The Tigers also capitalized on the Bulldogs miscues, scoring 23 points off of 13 Union turnovers. With the win, West Alabama has clinched a Top-Four Seed in the GSC Tournament and will host their Quarterfinal matchup on March. 2, with their eyes set on locking up the No. 1 seed.

"Union has some really talented players," said head coach Nick Woodruff. "There's nothing like a conference road win and we definitely don't take them for granted."

West Alabama opened strong, establishing a significant lead over the Bulldogs by the end of the first half. Elliot Tulip's early three-pointer at 19:09, assisted by BJ Brown Jr., set the tone for UWA. Rasean Frederick contributed consistently, scoring multiple layups, including one at 4:11, further widening the margin. The Bulldogs struggled with turnovers, committing 12 in the half, which the Tigers capitalized on, reflected in their 20 points off turnovers. By the end of the half, West Alabama led 43-25, demonstrating efficiency with 17 field goals on 30 attempts.

Union mounted a strong effort in the second half, fueled by Terrence Ringo Jr.'s early dunk and a three-pointer by Devaki Garr to close the gap. Despite these efforts, UWA maintained its lead, with Tulip contributing one of his five three-pointers at the 18:33 mark and Frederick providing consistent scoring down low. The Bulldogs attempted to rally with contributions from Jamiir Allen and Will Lovings-Watts, but West Alabama countered effectively and held on to win 79-69.

Tulip scored 19 points, converting five of eight from beyond the arc. Frederick tallied 20 points, going 8-for-16 from the field. Brown Jr. turned in a stat line of eight points, nine assists, six rebounds, and five steals, contributing significantly on both ends of the court. Christian Thompson finished with nine rebounds, adding eight points to his performance.

West Alabama will conclude their Tennessee road trip on Saturday with a matchup against Christian Brothers.