PRAIRIE VIEW, Texas – The Prairie View A&M men's basketball team defeated Texas Southern University 79-73 on Saturday in the Baby Dome.
 
The teams tied at 2-2 early in the first half, before PVAMU took a quick 7-2 lead with 17:46 left in the half.  Senior guard Dennis Jones and junior guard Andrus Gerard gave the Panthers a 14-8 advantage at the 13:51 mark.
 
The Panthers capped off a 12-0 run with a layup from senior guard Gary Blackston with 5:54 left in the half. PVAMU went into the half leading 35-30.
 
PVAMU came out fast in the second half with Blackston scoring the Panther's first bucket of the period and giving the team the 37-34 lead.
 
Even though the Tiger's went on a slight run, PVAMU held a one point advantage for most of the second half. That was until a 6-0 run ignited by a fast break dunk from junior forward Devonte Patterson gave the Panthers a 58-51 lead with 7:52 remaining in the game.
 
The Panthers held a 72-61 lead after a made three point shot from Jones with 3:28 left in the period. The Panthers then eventually walked away with the 79-73 victory.
 
Andrus led the team with a season high 24 points and seven rebounds. Blackston followed behind with 14 points, a career high 13 rebounds, and three assists.  Junior guard Darius Williams contributed with 13 points, four rebounds, three assists and two steals.
 
The Panthers will continue home play as they return to the Baby Dome on Saturday, Jan. 19th at 5 pm, when they face the Tigers of Jackson State.
 
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