FORT VALLEY, Ga- In the 2021 season opener the University of West Florida Men's Basketball team defeated the Fort Valley State Wildcats 69-64 on Friday evening.
 
Four of UWF starting five scored in double figures to secure the win, scoring 60 of the teams 69 points. Junior Wendell Matthews led the team with 18 points and nine rebounds. David Petit-Homme put the Argos out in front early after a layup. Petit-Homme had 17 points and eight rebounds on the night.
 
During the first half the Argos shot 40.6 percent from the field and 70 percent from the free throw line. West Florida outrebounded Fort Valley 26-16, with 18 defensive rebounds and eight offensive rebounds. The Argos forced four Wildcat turnovers during the first half alone. Going into halftime West Florida had a 33-27 lead.
 
"I'm really happy for our team," Coach Burkhamer, said. "Road wins are very difficult to attain. We defended and rebounded the ball well. Our offensive execution was good at times. Great to have four guys in double figures."
 
During the second half the Argos continued to play tough defense and maintained the lead the entire half, with the largest lead being by 17.
 
Daniel Sofield had two three pointers in the second half and finished the night with 12 total points.Point guard Brandon Burford had 13 points, eight rebounds and three assists. In the second half of the game Petit-Homme scored eight points.  
 
The Wildcats would make a run late in the second half, coming within three points of the Argos at one point. Fort Valley was 11-29 from the field, shooting 37.9 percent. The Wildcats bench scored 18 of their points during the second half. Fort Valley was led in scoring by Pierre Mitchell who had 18 points.
 
Overall, UWF shot 40.4 percent from the field, compared to FVSU's 33.9 percent. The Argos outrebounded the Wildcats 44-32 and had 15 points off of turnovers.
 
The Argos will wrap up their time at the GSC/SIAC Crossover on Saturday, Nov.13 against Clark Atlanta University at 3 p.m. eastern
 
How to follow the Argos: For complete information on UWF Men's Basketball follow their Instagram @UWFMBB and Twitter @UWFMENSBBALL