Flames win first GSC Tournament Game with victory over AUM
Photo courtesy of Lee Flames.
The Lee men's basketball team made history on Tuesday evening in Walker Arena as the Flames recorded the first Gulf South Conference Tournament victory in program history with a dominating, 81-57 win over Auburn Montgomery.
Seniors Ryan Montgomery and Parker Suedekum lead the way for the Flames, who exacted revenge on the Warhawks after dropping both regular season contests. Montgomery lit up the stat sheet with 25 points and 10 rebounds in 31 minutes. Suedekum followed with 20 points, five rebounds, five steals and four assists.
Josh Lowe was the Flames third player in double-figures, with 12 points and eight rebounds. Quay Kennedy scored just five points, but he made his presence felt with a game-high 11 rebounds and three blocks.
The Flames’ smothering defense made life difficult for the Warhawks. Lee limited AUM to just 31 percent shooting from the field and 22.7 percent from beyond the arc.
"I think from the very start we were really locked in defensively and that was a big key to getting the victory tonight," said Lee head coach Bubba Smith. "I thought when we played them (AUM) a couple of weeks ago they showcased their offensively ability, they have guys that can really score but we didn't do a very good job of affecting their shots. Tonight we were active and aggressive and that led to some transition offense and allowed us to get out in front and stay out in front."
The capacity crowd rose to their feet with 40 seconds remaining as Montgomery and Suedekum exited the Walker Arena floor for the final time in their storied four-year careers.
"We've overcome a lot of adversity this season and Ryan and Parker are a major reason why," said Smith. "We are where we are because of their leadership. We talked with our guys about not being satisfied just to be here in the tournament but really wanting to do something special. We beat a good team tonight and we know we will need to play well to win on Saturday in Birmingham."
The win moves the Flames to 22-6 on the year while the loss ends the Auburn Montgomery's season at an even 15-15.
The Flames will get another crack at Alabama Huntsville on Saturday at 8:15 (EST.) in the GSC Semifinals from Samford University in Birmingham, Ala. The two clubs split the regular season series, with the Chargers winning just last Saturday on their home floor.
