From STAFF REPORTS
americustimesrecorder.com

AMERICUS – Georgia Southwestern’s Hurricanes scored 53 points in the second half to pull away from the All-Army men’s basketball team and win, 76-59, in an exhibition game on November 7 in the Storm Dome. The Hurricanes had four players score in double figures, led by Jure Gunjina and Adam Thoseby, with 13 points apiece.
GSW’s defense clamped down on the All-Army squad over the opening 20 minutes and took a 23-22 lead into the halftime break after holding the visitors to 25 percent shooting (7 of 28) and forcing 10 turnovers.
The game remained close seven minutes into the second half. Omar Barlett made one of two free throws with 12:50 remaining to pull All-Army within a basket, 32-30. That’s as close as the All-Army team based out of Fort Benning, would get the rest of the way.
Gunjina answered with a 3-pointer on the ensuing possession to start a 16-6 run that gave the Hurricanes some breathing room.
With 5:53 to play and a 51-40 advantage, GSW’s Thoseby and Karon Wright drained back-to-back 3-pointers to open the lead to 17 points and put the game out of reach.
GSW’s largest lead came with 2:29 remaining when Chandler Thomas scored to put the Hurricanes ahead 68-49.
The Hurricanes attempted 16 fewer shots in the contest than the All-Army team and were much more efficient, connecting on 47.9 percent (23 of 48) compared to 31.3 percent (20 of 64). GSW won the rebounding battle, 41-34, and dished out seven more assists, 17-10.
Gunjina posted game-highs in rebounds (9) and assists (5) and added a pair of blocks. Wright and Damien Leonard scored points 11 apiece. Thomas chipped in nine points and seven rebounds. Brandon Price added eight points.
All-Army guard Denzell Hosch led all scorers with 19 points. Barlett and Chris Way chipped in nine points apiece. Way added a team-best six rebounds.
Southwestern opens its regular season on Nov. 17, at 7:30 p.m. in Storm Dome against Fort Valley State.