On Thursday, Jan. 19, the Mitchell Center hosted over 3,000 fans for the always gritty rivalry with the Trojans from Troy. The fans started arriving when the gates opened one hour before tip-off, ready for a great night of this rivalry. As you entered the stadium, you could hear the energy and excitement in the arena. Kudos to USA Fan Engagement, for their spectacular job with this game. 

The first half consisted of both teams jockeying for control, trading baskets and big defensive stops. Every dribble, every pass, and every shot were exhilarating. The Jags were in command on the defensive side of the ball. They held Troy to only 25 points in the first half while limiting their shooting percentage to 30% from three-point range. 

The score remained tight as halftime approached, and fans were left on the edge of their seats. South only had a five point lead over the Trojans and needed some buffer room. As teams went to the locker room and regrouped for the second half, the halftime performance was nothing short of extraordinary. It featured performances from the “Dance Without Limits” team as part of Project Outreach’s “Shooting 2 Change” campaign in which gifted children showed off their dance skills and excitement to be honored. The joy in the stadium was powerful, and in considering the situation, it is important to find gratitude and inspiration from the actions of those dancing. Next, the University granted U.S. citizenship to over 30 individuals; this was a proud moment for these folks, to say the least. They were given a standing ovation from the crowd at the Mitchell Center and were honored by University President Jo Bonner. President Bonner finished by saying, “God Bless the USA,” and the song echoed throughout the arena. 

As the second half began, fans settled back into their seats and prepared themselves for another half of intense competition. Both teams unleashed relentless offensive strategies in the back-and-forth matchup between the rivals. As the Jaguars secured an 11 point lead late in the second half, the crowd erupted and stood on their feet in support of the Jags. 

Troy, however, refused to back down. They mounted a bit of a comeback that forced the arena to quiet down. The back-and-forth battle intensified, and each possession was crucial for bragging rights. Some notable plays came from graduate student Samuel Tabe, who scored 19 points on five assists and seven rebounds, and senior Tyrell “Turbo” Jones, who scored 17 points and tied a season high with four steals. 

In the late minutes of the game, junior Thomas Howell delivered a key block that practically secured the win for the Jags. The crowd erupted and stood to their feet showing support for the Jags’ hard fought win over Troy. 

This win gave South a 16-5 record for games at home against the Trojans and made it nine wins against them out of the last 11 games.

Edited by Stephanie Huynh on Feb. 17, 2024 to include the “Dance Without Limits” team in the halftime performances.