Flames suffer first conference loss to West Georgia by four points
Courtesy of John David Clark, Photography Editor
An anxious Flames crowd roared during the final minutes of their matchup with the West Georgia Wolves, but in the end, the Flames suffered their first conference loss by a slim 4 points.
Walker Arena had strength in numbers as students from different dorms across campus filled the seats. A sea of ridiculous outfits, plush jackets and scrunchies only meant one thing: '80s theme night.
It was the first game of the semester with students back on campus, so lack of support was no issue for the Flames in this match. Junior Maggie Strickert loved the energy that came with every basket the Flames scored.
“The Flames are on fire tonight,” said Strickert. “We just keep hitting point after point.”
Heading into the second half, the Flames were leading 42-31, and despite the speed and agility of West Georgia, the Flames worked well together as a team to dominate the scoreboard.
Junior student manager Garret Plumlee stated that the Flames worked well offensively to keep the score close until the end.
“Offensively, we scored 42 points in the first half, which is the most we have had all season,” Plumlee said. “Duke Evans went off at 11 points straight for us. That was a key moment.”
While West Georgia began to pick up points and come right behind the Flames, Plumlee said that the fan support helped the team stay confident throughout the remainder of the game.
“The fans were awesome,” said Plumlee. “That is the most support I have seen besides the Homecoming game, and we really appreciate it.”
It appeared as though the Flames were going to stay undefeated in the GSC, but West Georgia’s surge in the final four minutes of the game was enough to overcome the Flames' tremendous effort. The Flames lost by a score of 66-70.
Kentrell Evans came off the bench and had a team high, 14 points, while consistent big man Colton Blevins scored in 10 of his own.
The Flames look to rebound this upcoming Thursday at 8:00 in the Walker Arena as the University of Montevallo comes into town.
