CLEVELAND, Miss. -- The Statesmen (3-10 overall, 2-8 GSC) shot close to 54 percent and hit 8 three-pointers in the second half of Saturday's New Year's Eve win against Kentucky Wesleyan (6-6, 2-2 GMAC). The Statesmen also benefited from the hustle stats, outscoring the Panthers in points off turnovers and second-chance points.

The Panthers led by 12 at the halftime break after shooting just under 54 percent from the field themselves with 7 made three-pointers. However, the Statesmen outscored the Panthers 48-27 in the final 20 minutes to secure the comeback victory.

Six Statesmen made their way to the scoring column, led by Kelen Dietrich who scored a game-high 24 points. Kelen connected on 6 of his 11 attempts from beyond the arc and also recorded 2 assists and 2 steals.

Sam Smith recorded yet another double-double with 16 points and 14 boards. Maalik Cartwright also joined them in double figures with 14 points, 7 rebounds, an assist, and 2 steals.

UP NEXT:
Both Delta State basketball teams return to GSC play on Monday, January 2 as they travel to Clinton to take on Mississippi College. The Lady Statesmen are scheduled to tipoff at 5:30 pm. The men's game is scheduled for 7:30 pm.