South Alabama won the USA Basketball Classic over the weekend, defeating Maine 71-59 and UC Davis 72-69 to claim the program’s first tournament championship since 1991.
The two victories ended a two-game losing streak for the Jaguars and improved their record to 4-3. DeAndré Coleman was named the tournament’s most valuable player.
Jaguars Control Maine From the Start
South Alabama built a 40-20 halftime lead against Maine and stayed ahead by double digits for the final 30 minutes of the 71-59 victory.
Brandon Davis led the Jaguars with 18 points. Domonic Tilford scored 15, and Coleman added 11 points off the bench.
Coleman Posts Career High Against UC Davis
In the championship game, Coleman recorded his first double-double of the season with a career-high 19 points and 11 rebounds as South Alabama held off UC Davis 72-69.
Tilford scored 17 points and Davis added 11. Both were named to the all-tournament team, joining Coleman, who took home MVP honors.
Ending a Long Wait
The championship was South Alabama’s first tournament title since 1991. The Jaguars are coached by Ronnie Arrow and compete in the Sun Belt Conference.
Next Up: Southern Miss
South Alabama travels to Hattiesburg, Miss., to face Southern Miss on Tuesday. Tipoff is scheduled for 7 p.m.
