The University of the Virgin Islands Buccaneers fell short in their matchup against Philander Smith University, losing 80-71 at the Mims Gymnasium in Little Rock, Arkansas, on Saturday afternoon.
UVI started strong, setting the pace from the tip-off. The Buccaneers surged to a 20-12 lead midway through the first half, asserting their dominance early. They shot 47.2% from the field and 30% from three-point range in the first half. Senior guard Khari Person led the team with 11 points in the first half, helping the Buccaneers secure a 39-31 lead at halftime.
The Buccaneers maintained their momentum early in the second half, with junior Chad Molloy hitting a threepointer to extend their lead to 49-35, the largest of the game. However, a defensive lapse allowed the Panthers to go on an 11-0 run, narrowing the gap. Philander Smith University took its first lead at 56-55, and although the Buccaneers briefly regained the advantage, they struggled to distance themselves from the home team. The Panthers reclaimed the lead at 70-69 with just over two minutes remaining and successfully held off the Buccaneers’ final efforts to secure victory.
“We didn’t get the result we wanted, but this game serves as a valuable benchmark for our team,” said head coach Kevin Sheppard. “We controlled the game until the final four minutes of the second half. Our performance was strong across all statistical categories. The key difference was the turnovers, particularly late in the game, which gave them extra opportunities. Overall, I am proud of our performance. We have areas to improve, but this game against a championship-caliber team demonstrates that our Buccaneers also possess that championship potential.”
Person was the Buccaneers’ leading scorer, finishing the game with 14 points. Juniors Sebastian Dokum, Devin Binyard, and senior Eliyah Stevens were the three other buccaneers scoring in double figures with 13, 12, and 10 points, respectively.
The Buccaneers will now turn their attention to their upcoming opponent, as they conclude their two-game road trip against Champion Christian College. This matchup will take place at the Champion Community Center in Hot Springs, Arkansas, on Monday.
