PENSACOLA, Fla. -- The Statesmen (6-12 overall, 5-10 GSC) came into Thursday's game having won five of their last six games, but saw their momentum slow against West Florida (9-10, 5-10). The two teams traded the lead 10 times in the game, but all lead changes came in the first quarter of West Florida's 69-62 win.

The two teams were nearly identical in several key statistics with a slight edge for the Argos in rebounding at 36-35 and the teams even in paint points at 28 for the game. However, with the two teams shooting over 40 percent for the game, one key difference was the 16-6 advantage for West Florida in second chance points.

Kelen Dietrich was second only to UWF's Wendell Matthews for the game-high total with 22 points for the DSU guard. Dietrich hit six three-pointers in the game and was also credited with 3 assists.

Maalik Cartwright also scored 20 points for the Statesmen thanks to an 8-of-13 shooting performance with a made shot beyond the arc. Cartwright nearly recorded a double-double with 9 boards and 6 assists credited.

Sam Smith only played 28 minutes, but scored 9 points and hauled in 7 rebounds. Derek Moore filled in down low, scoring 8 points and securing 6 rebounds. 

UP NEXT:
The Statesmen will stay on the road Saturday for a 3:00 pm tipoff at Valdosta State (13-8, 9-6).