Tigers get back to winning ways with victory

HOUSTON- The Texas Southern University TigerS men's basketball team came into their contest with the Jackson State University Tigers looking to bounce back after being dealt their first loss in Southwestern Athletic Conference play last Saturday at the hands of Prairie View A&M.  The TSU Tigers did just that as they knocked off the Tigers of Jackson State by a final score of 76-60. 
           
The win pushed TSU to a 10-1 record in conference play and padded their first-place standing in the SWAC.  The victory also helped TSU stay perfect at home as they moved to 6-0 in the HPE Arena. 
           
It did not start out easy for TSU.  JSU hung with the Tigers throughout the first half as TSU struggled to break away.  At halftime, TSU narrowly led by the score of 29-28.  After the intermission, TSU heated up considerably and was able to create separation. 
 
The Tigers shot a blistering 68 percent from the field and led by double-digits for most of the second half.  For the game, TSU shot 58 percent from the field and held JSU to just 39 percent on their shot attempts.  
           
Forward Chris Thomas led the way for TSU on offense.  The senior from Denver, Colorado poured in 26 points for the Tigers.  Thomas was hot all night and shot a scorching 10-12 from the field.  Forward Jose Rodriguez chipped in 15 points and hit 8-9 from the free throw line. 
 
Freshman forward Derrick Griffin had his minutes limited due to foul trouble.  Despite missing a significant amount of time on the floor, he still was able to contribute another double-double with 12 points and 10 rebounds. 
           
The win propels the Tigers to an 11-12 overall record.  TSU will look to continue its quest for a conference championship as they welcome Grambling State University to the HPE Arena Monday night at 7:30 pm.