LIVINGSTON, Ala. — The University of West Alabama Men's Basketball team captured the GSC Regular Season Championship on Thursday night with a 66-54 win over Montevallo at Pruitt Hall. 

No. 13 West Alabama (23-3, 18-2 GSC) turned in an incredible second half defensive effort, holding Montevallo (18-7, 14-5 GSC) to 21 points on 24 percent shooting and 0-9 from three in the half which led them to their 12-point win. UWA will now be the No.1 Seed in the GSC Tournament which is set to begin in March 2.

The first half saw a competitive start as UWA and Montevallo exchanged leads multiple times. Caleb Parr opened the scoring with a tip-in less than two minutes in, but Derek Moore quickly responded for the Falcons with a layup. Jaylen Curry's three-pointer at the 17:19 mark gave the Falcons an early edge. The Tigers' BJ Brown Jr. contributed with assists and crucial defensive plays, while Travion McCray's three-pointer at 4:06 provided a brief lead for West Alabama. Ultimately, Montevallo closed the half strongly, with Devon McKinnon's fast-break jumper in the final seconds, leading to a 33-29 advantage at the end of the half.

West Alabama shot 33 percent from the floor and 36 percent from three in the first half while Montevallo shot 54 percent and 33 percent from three.

UWA capitalized on a strong second half to secure a 66-54 victory over the Falcons. The Tigers gained momentum with key contributions from Parr, who sank two free throws at the 17:37 mark to tie the game at 35. Christian Thompson's layup at 13:06, assisted by Parr, pushed West Alabama ahead 44-41. As the game progressed, the Tigers maintained its lead thanks to their stifling defense which completely neutralized the Falcons' offense. With Montevallo struggling from the field, West Alabama cruised to a 66-54 win to capture the GSC Regular Season Championship. 

Brown Jr. recorded five steals and added five assists, providing strong defensive and playmaking efforts. Parr scored 17 points, converting 8 of 9 free throws and collecting nine rebounds. Thompson contributed 10 points, led the team with 15 rebounds, and notched two steals. McCray posted 10 points, making two three-pointers and securing four rebounds.

With the One-Seed now locked up for the GSC Tournament, West Alabama will end their week on Saturday with a 4:00 p.m. matchup against AUM.