OPENING TIP: Tennessee State opens Ohio Valley Conference play Thursday against UT Martin, bringing momentum into league action after a 63–60 road win over UNLV. The Tigers closed nonconference play with a 6–4 record, highlighted by four of their six victories coming away from the Gentry Center, including road wins over UNLV, Chattanooga and UNC Asheville. UT Martin enters the matchup at 8–3 overall.
The Matchup:
Tennessee State (6-4) vs. UT Martin (8-3)
Date/Time: Thursday, December 18 at 7:30 PM CT
Location: NASHVILLE | Gentry Center
TV: ESPN+
SERIES INFORMATION VS UT MARTIN: Tennessee State holds a 39-32 all-time record against the Skyhawks after sweeping the 2024-25 season series.
UNLV BY THE NUMBERS:
3: Dante Harris dished out three assists in the final 11 minutes, helping TSU execute down the stretch.
4: Jalen Pitre pulled down four offensive rebounds, creating extra possessions in a one-possession game.
5: Five Tigers recorded at least one steal, showcasing active hands on the defensive end.
6: TSU had six players score at least six points, highlighting balanced offensive production.
7: The contest featured seven lead changes, with Tennessee State answering every UNLV run.
8: Aaron Nkrumah grabbed eight rebounds to anchor the Tigers on the glass.
9: Tennessee State used a 9–0 scoring run early in the second half to seize momentum.
10: The game was tied 10 times, underscoring TSU's composure in a tightly contested road matchup.
11: Nkrumah led all scorers with 11 points, finishing strong at the rim and in transition.
12: TSU forced 12 steals, while Dante Harris posted a game-best +12 plus/minus.
16: The Tigers scored 16 second-chance points, capitalizing on effort plays and offensive rebounds.
22: Tennessee State's bench contributed 22 points, providing key production throughout the game.
26: TSU converted 26 field goals, including 26-of-44 shooting inside the arc.
34: The Tigers poured in 34 second-half points, outscoring UNLV after the break.
39: Tennessee State outrebounded UNLV 39–36, controlling the glass in a tight contest.
40: TSU dominated the paint with 40 points down low, establishing a physical presence.
50: The Tigers shot 50.0 percent from the field in the second half, raising efficiency when it mattered most.
59: Tennessee State converted 59 percent of its two-point attempts, consistently finishing around the basket.
