OWENSBORO, Ky. — The Delta State University Men's Basketball Team battled wire-to-wire on the road Saturday afternoon, showing resilience, depth, and high-level shot-making in a hard-fought 85–79 contest against Kentucky Wesleyan.

The Statesmen delivered one of their most balanced offensive performances of the young season, placing five players in double figures and knocking down 12 three-pointers as a team

DaCory Porter led the charge with an impressive 18 points, 9 rebounds, and 4 assists, flashing his all-around ability and controlling stretches of the game on both ends. Elisha Puckett continued his efficient start to the season, pouring in 14 points and 7 rebounds, while Samuel Whitmer added 13 points, including three makes from beyond the arch.

Delta State's bench provided a major spark, contributing 28 points, highlighted by Jackson Twombly's 12 points on 5-of-7 shooting, giving the Statesmen valuable energy and scoring throughout the afternoon

Despite several momentum swings, the Statesmen maintained composure, matching KWC in made field goals and forcing 13 turnovers while generating 14 points off takeaways. Delta State also pushed the pace effectively, outscoring Kentucky Wesleyan 14–7 in fast-break points and dominating stretches in the paint with 30 interior points

Delta State battled within a possession multiple times down the stretch, but timely three-point shooting from the Panthers proved to be the difference in the closing minutes.

The Statesmen are back on the road Tuesday as they take a short trip to Monticello to take on the Boll Weevils from the University of Arkansas Monticello. The game will tip off at 6:00 p.m.