LIVINGSTON, Ala. — The University of West Alabama Men's Basketball team advanced to the GSC Semifinals on Monday after earning a 75-60 win over the Delta State Statesmen at Pruitt Hall. 

UWA (25-4, 19-3 Gulf South) dominated the paint, outscoring DSU (11-17, 8-14 Gulf South), 52-14 in that area while out-rebounding the Statesmen, 46-29. The Tigers also held Delta State to 35.7 percent shooting on the night.

"I'm really proud of the guys," said head coach Nick Woodruff. "That was a defensive clinic in terms of what we needed to do and how we needed to do it."

West Alabama opened the game with a strong offensive display, led by BJ Brown Jr., who scored two early layups in the first few minutes. The Statesmen struggled to find their rhythm, missing several early shots, but DaCory Porter managed to put DSU on the board with a layup at 17:57. The Tigers maintained their lead through consistent scoring in the paint, with contributions from Brown Jr. and Rasean Frederick. While it felt as though UWA dominated the first half, Delta State cut the Tigers lead down to 32-26 at the half after Je'Marion Westbrook hit a step-back three at the buzzer. 

West Alabama shot 43.8 percent from the field in the first half, while holding Delta State to 28.6 percent from the floor and 15.4 percent from three.

The Tigers came out of the break fast, using an 11-0 run to extend their lead to 17 points, less than 4:00 minutes into the second half. Brown Jr. led the charge with multiple key baskets, including a layup at the 16:42 mark that extended UWA's lead. Christian Thompson contributed significantly with a block and a dunk early in the half. The Statesmen attempted a late comeback, with Westbrook pouring in points late, but the Tigers' robust performance in the paint and defensive effort maintained their lead, resulting in a comfortable win.

Brown Jr. scored 22 points, converting 10 of 15 field goal attempts. Jakobe Singleton added 19 points off the bench, making all five of his free throws and recording two steals. Frederick posted 12 points and collected five rebounds. Thompson contributed with 12 rebounds and nine points, providing a strong presence on the boards.

"Really big-time effort from the guys to defend and rebound," coach Woodruff continued. "Good win to get back on track. Now we have to get ready for Thursday."

West Alabama will play the winner of UAH and Valdosta State on Thursday in the GSC Semifinals. Tip-off is set for 6:00 p.m. at Pruitt Hall.