PENSACOLA, Fla. – Despite a strong second-half offensive surge, the Delta State University men's basketball team fell 85-72 to the University of West Florida on Friday night at the UWF Field House.

West Florida established control early, building a 39-26 lead by halftime. The Argonauts utilized a high-pressure defense that forced eight first-half turnovers and converted them into nine points. 

The Statesmen found their rhythm in the second half, nearly doubling their first-half production with 46 points. Delta State's long-range shooting kept them competitive, as they finished the game with 10 made three-pointers. Bryce Clayton led the charge in the second period, scoring 14 of his team-high 20 points after the break. However, West Florida's dominance in the paint (42 points) and on the boards (43-27 rebounding advantage) proved too much for the Statesmen to overcome.

Bryce Clayton finished with 20 points, including four three-pointers, while DaCory Porter added 17 points and seven rebounds. Samuel Whitmer also reached double figures with 13 points and three assists. Spencer Clayton and Brendan Braddix contributed to the effort, with the Statesmen shooting a solid 83.3% from the free-throw line as a team.

UWF's Aric Demings finished with a team-high 18 points and six assists to lead the Argonauts. Delta State (5-7, 2-5 GSC) will look to bounce back as they continue Gulf South Conference play on their next road stop at Valdosta State Sunday afternoon.