Augusta, GA – The Augusta men's basketball team secured a hard-fought 76-73 victory over Lander on Monday night at Christenberry Fieldhouse. The Jaguars improve to 17-7 overall and 11-3 in Peach Belt Conference play, while Lander falls to 14-10 and 8-6 in the league.

Augusta (17-7, 11-3 Peach Belt)
FG% 45.6
3PT% 40.0
FT% 90.0

Lander (14-10, 8-6 Peach Belt)
FG% 43.4
3PT% 50.0
FT% 82.4

The Jaguars found themselves in a back-and-forth battle throughout the game, as the lead changed six times and the score was tied on six occasions. Augusta held a narrow 34-31 lead at halftime and maintained their edge in the second half behind strong performances from key contributors.

Demitri Gardner led Augusta with 23 points, going a perfect 10-for-10 from the free-throw line, while adding two rebounds and two assists. Max Amadasun was dominant inside, scoring 16 points with eight rebounds and two blocks. John St. Germain III contributed 13 points and six assists, while Elias Palsson provided a spark off the bench with 15 points on 6-of-11 shooting, including three three-pointers.

The game remained tight in the closing minutes, but Augusta's defense held strong. Clutch free throws by Gardner and St. Germain III sealed the win, as the Jaguars finished 18-of-20 from the foul line. Augusta also outscored Lander 28-16 in the paint and forced 14 turnovers, capitalizing with 12 points off those mistakes.

Next Up: Augusta and Lander will face off again in a quick rematch on Wednesday, February 19, in Greenwood, SC. Tip-off is set for 7:30 p.m.