By Mike Lehman, TTU Sports Information
NASHVILLE, Tenn. – Things just never fell into place offensively for the Tennessee Tech men's basketball Thursday evening, as the Tennessee State Tigers (4-18, 1-6) handed the Golden Eagles (10-12, 2-7) a tough, 64-56 loss in the Gentry Center in Nashville.
The Tigers held strong on the defensive side of the ball, keeping the Golden Eagles under 40 percent shooting from the field and under 30 percent from 3-point range on the night. With constant full-court pressure, the Tigers were able to keep the usually high-scoring offense of the Tech squad at bay.
On the flip side, Tennessee State enjoyed one of its most successful shooting nights of the season, finishing at 49 percent from the field and 66.7 percent from beyond the arc. Jay Harris led the Tigers with 19 points, including a 5-for-7 night from 3-point land.
Torrance Rowe led the Tech squad in scoring on the night, recording 16 points and leading all players with three steals. Dwan Caldwell pulled in a double-double after scoring 12 points and pulling in 11 rebounds.
Charles Jackson made both of his field goal attempts on the night, but was limited in scoring chances with the Tennessee State defense zeroed in on stopping the big man. He also collected eight rebounds and two blocks.
The Golden Eagles will return to action on Saturday, Jan. 31 where they will head back to Nashville for another East Division meeting, taking on the Belmont Bruins. The contest, which is scheduled for a 2 p.m. CST tip, will be the first game of a doubleheader with the Tech women's team.
Photo by Jim Dillon
