Columbus, GA - The Augusta men's basketball team secured a crucial 76-69 road victory over No. 17 Columbus State on Saturday afternoon at the Lumpkin Center, taking over the top spot in the Peach Belt Conference. With the win, Augusta improves to 13-6 overall and 7-2 in conference play, while Columbus State drops to 16-3 and 7-2 in the league.

Augusta (13-6, 7-2 Peach Belt)
FG% 50.0
3PT% 40.0
FT% 83.3

Columbus State (16-3, 7-2 Peach Belt)
FG% 46.4
3PT% 29.4
FT% 57.1

The Jaguars overcame a slow start, trailing 36-25 at halftime before erupting in the second half with 51 points. Augusta shot an impressive 74.1% from the field in the final 20 minutes, outscoring Columbus State 51-33 to complete the comeback victory.

Demitri Gardner fueled the offense with a game-high 26 points, shooting 12-of-20 from the field while adding four rebounds, one assist, and one steal. Max Amadasun controlled the paint with 17 points and 10 rebounds, securing another double-double. John St. Germain III played a pivotal role in the backcourt, finishing with 10 points, six assists, and two blocks.

The Jaguars took control late in the game, breaking a 63-63 tie with under four minutes remaining. St. Germain III put Augusta ahead with a driving layup, and Amadasun extended the lead to four with a strong finish inside. Gardner followed with a clutch jumper to make it a five-point game before Elias Palsson drilled a key three-pointer with 1:42 left, giving Augusta a six-point cushion. St. Germain III sealed the victory with two free throws in the final seconds.

Augusta's defense locked down Columbus State in the second half, limiting the Cougars to 37.0% shooting while winning the rebounding battle 38-30.

Next Up: Augusta returns home to face Clayton State on Wednesday, February 5, at 7:30 p.m. in another key Peach Belt Conference matchup.