Augusta, GA – John St. Germain III erupted for 22 second-half points to lead Augusta to a thrilling 78-68 comeback victory over Clayton State on Wednesday night at Christenberry Fieldhouse. With the win, Augusta improves to 14-5 overall and 8-1 in Peach Belt Conference play, while Clayton State falls to 6-15 and 0-11 in league action.

Augusta (14-6, 8-2 Peach Belt)
FG% 49.1
3PT% 41.7
FT% 58.6

Clayton State (6-15, 0-11 Peach Belt)
FG% 37.3
3PT% 25.0
FT% 64.7

Clayton State controlled the first half, jumping out to a 41-32 lead at the break. However, Augusta stormed back in the second half behind a dominant performance from St. Germain III. The Jaguars outscored the Lakers 46-27 after halftime, shooting 53.6% from the field in the final 20 minutes.

St. Germain III led all scorers with 22 points, all of which came in the second half. The senior guard went 6-of-10 from the field, 9-of-10 from the free-throw line, and added five assists. Demitri Gardner followed with 20 points and six rebounds, while Max Amadasun anchored the interior with eight points and nine rebounds.

Augusta took control with just under 10 minutes remaining, using a 12-2 run to erase the deficit. St. Germain III put the Jaguars ahead 54-52 with a driving layup and extended the lead moments later with a three-pointer. Clayton State stayed within striking distance, but Augusta sealed the win at the free-throw line, with St. Germain III knocking down six free throws in the final minute.

Augusta dominated the glass, out-rebounding Clayton State 42-35, and held the Lakers to just 33.3% shooting in the second half.



Next Up: The Jaguars return home for a highly anticipated rivalry matchup against USC Aiken on Saturday, February 8. Tip-off is set for 7:30 p.m. at Christenberry Fieldhouse in another crucial Peach Belt Conference showdown.