COOKEVILLE, Tenn. — Little Rock dropped an 87-77 decision at Tennessee Tech on Saturday at Eblen Center, despite a balanced offensive effort that included 40 points in the paint and 11 fast-break points.
The Trojans were efficient inside but were unable to overcome Tennessee Tech's perimeter shooting and work on the offensive glass. The Golden Eagles connected on 11 three-pointers and grabbed 18 offensive rebounds, turning second-chance opportunities into key points down the stretch.
"We did some good things offensively, especially attacking the paint," Little Rock head coach
Darrell Walker said. "But you can't give up that many second chances and expect to win on the road. That was the difference tonight."
Little Rock (9-13-6-5) opened the game with strong energy, taking an early lead behind aggressive play on both ends of the floor. The Trojans briefly regained the advantage midway through the first half, but Tennessee Tech answered with a stretch of three-point shooting to create separation. Little Rock closed the half within striking distance, trailing 40-35 at the break.
The Trojans continued to compete in the second half, keeping the margin within reach while scoring 42 points after intermission.
Braxton Bayless and
Truman Claytor IV helped fuel the offense, but Tennessee Tech (8-14, 3-8) maintained its lead by capitalizing on offensive rebounds and timely perimeter baskets.
"I liked our fight and our effort," Walker said. "We stayed connected and kept competing, but we've got to be more disciplined defensively and finish possessions with rebounds."
Bayless led Little Rock with 24 points on 9-of-14 shooting and added five steals. Claytor finished with 16 points, shooting 6-of-12 from the field, and recorded three steals.
Johnathan Lawson contributed 12 points and four assists, while
Tuongthach Gatkek added eight points and two blocks.
Little Rock travels to UT Martin for a makeup game Tuesday night. Tip time is set for 7:30.
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