PENSACOLA, Fla. — The University of West Florida (24-8, 15-7 Gulf South) secured a 79-72 victory over Lee University (15-13, 11-11 Gulf South) on Thursday at UWF Field House in the semifinals of the GSC Tournament. With the win, the Argos advance to the GSC Championship for the first time since 2018.

The first half opened with the Flames' Tylon Chatman scoring a jumper, but the Argonauts quickly responded with a layup from Aric Demings. West Florida's offense gained momentum, highlighted by an Anthony Igiede fast-break layup, as they built a lead. Lee's Jamarcus Wilkins contributed with free throws and a layup, yet West Florida maintained control with a balanced attack, including a three-pointer by Christian Valarezo. Despite a late layup from Lee's Chatman, the Argonauts extended their advantage with a buzzer-beating three-pointer by Ryan Payne, closing the half at 47-33.

Lee mounted a strong challenge in the second half, narrowing West Florida's lead with a series of quick baskets. Dayveun Anderson made a layup that brought Lee within striking distance. Chatman continued the surge with a layup, cutting the deficit to seven. However, the Argonauts maintained their advantage through timely free throws, with Demings converting two to extend the lead to 77-70. Despite Lee's late efforts, including a tip-in by Willie Walton, West Florida held firm to secure a 79-72 victory.

Demings led with 22 points, making 12 of 13 free throws and adding five assists. Tim Hall Jr. contributed 14 points with nine rebounds and recorded two blocks and two steals. Elijah Wyche also scored 14 points, while collecting seven rebounds and four steals. Igiede finished with eight points and five rebounds, adding two assists.

Looking ahead, West Florida will hit the road to face No. 1 West Alabama in the GSC Championship. Time of tipoff is yet to be announced. Live stats, broadcast, and updates will be available on GoArgos.com.

For more information on the UWF men's basketball program, visit GoArgos.com and follow the team on social media at @uwfmbb (Instagram) and @UWFMensBBall (X).