MEMPHIS, Tenn. — Delta State opened the second half of the 2025–26 Gulf South Conference season with a hard-fought battle Thursday night but came up just short in a 66–64 loss at Christian Brothers inside Canale Arena. 

The Statesmen led for nearly 20 minutes and traded momentum throughout a game that featured 13 lead changes and eight ties. Delta State built an early 10-point advantage midway through the first half behind efficient shooting and strong work on the glass, but Christian Brothers closed the half on a late surge to take a 33–30 lead at the break. 

Delta State responded coming out of halftime, quickly regaining the lead and answering every CBU run down the stretch. Je'Marion Westbrook delivered a standout performance, pouring in a team-high 21 points on 8-of-10 shooting, including three three-pointers, while adding four rebounds and three assists. DaCory Porter followed with 15 points and a game-high 11 rebounds to record a double-double, anchoring the Statesmen inside. 

The game remained tight in the final minutes, with Delta State pulling even at 63-all with under two minutes remaining. After a late exchange of baskets and free throws, Christian Brothers sealed the game at the line in the closing seconds, and a final three-point attempt by the Statesmen narrowly missed as time expired. 

Delta State finished the night shooting 42.4 percent from the field and knocked down nine three-pointers, while holding a 17–3 advantage in bench points. The Statesmen also matched Christian Brothers with 15 second-chance points in a physical contest on the boards. 

Delta State will look to bounce back as it continues GSC play with a road trip to Jackson Tuesday evening to take on the Bulldogs from Union University at approximately 7:30 p.m. (CT).