MEMPHIS, TENN. – The No. 17-ranked Buccaneers of Christian Brothers (14-2, 3-0 GSC) fought off a furious second half comeback by the Statesmen (11-5, 1-2 GSC) of Delta State University Saturday at Canale Arena for a 75-65 victory. The loss was the second straight for the Statesmen in league play. 

The No. 17-ranked Buccaneers of Christian Brothers University came out of the gates playing better than their ranking, as CBU dominated the opening half 41-24. Nick Kohs and Reggie Peyton led CBU with nine points each at the break, while Alton Robinson led the Statesmen with nine points as well. 

The Bucs jumped out to a 19 point lead at the 4:00 mark behind two-quick threes from Connor Wetzel and Peyton. 

CBU shot 48 percent (14-of-29) in the first half, while DSU struggled from the field hitting just 11-of-28 for 39 percent. CBU scored seven of their 41 off Statesmen turnovers, while DSU outscored CBU 16-12 in the paint in the first half. 

The Statesmen found a new gear in the second half and outscored the Bucs 41-34, but CBU fought off DSU late to claim the win. 

DSU cut the lead to eight with less than four minutes to play, but several free throws late spelled doom for the Statesmen. 

CBU shot 47 percent for the contest on 26-of-55 attempts, while DSU connected on 45 percent (26-of-58). 

DSU hit just four three-point attempts compared to CBU's nine. The Statesmen out-rebounded the Bucs 34-31 and outscored them 36-30 in the paint. 

Alton Robinson led the Statesmen with 17 points and nine rebounds. Eric Spencer added 12 points, while Arian Maliqi (11) and Chad Akins (10) scored in double-digits. 

Nick Kohs delivered a double-double for CBU with 17 points and 11 rebounds. Reggie Peyton added 17 points and seven boards. 

The Statesmen travel to Magnolia, Ark., on Thursday, Jan. 22 to face the Muleriders of Southern Arkansas University. Game time is set for 7:30 p.m. at the W.T. Watson Athletic Center. J.T. Webb and Troy Treasure will have the call on the Statesmen Sports Network.