PARAGOULD, Ark. – UT Southern opened the 2026 calendar year with a hard-fought road victory Thursday night, grinding out a 65–63 win over Crowley's Ridge behind timely shot-making, defensive stops, and late-game execution.

The Firehawks set the tone early, striking first behind baskets from Eric Robinson and De'Marreon Baldwin to jump out to a quick lead in the opening minutes. UT Southern extended the advantage to as many as nine points midway through the first half, fueled by Luke Lentz knocking down a pair of three-pointers and Jack Harper connecting from deep to keep the offense flowing.

Crowley's Ridge chipped away late in the half, but UT Southern answered just before the break when Harper buried a corner three off a Baldwin assist, sending the Firehawks into halftime with a narrow 29–28 edge.

The second half opened with renewed intensity on both ends. Baldwin attacked the paint early, and Robinson was efficient offensively as UT Southern regained momentum and built its largest lead of the night at 11 with just over 13 minutes remaining. Lentz continued to provide a steady presence off the bench, converting at the free-throw line and knocking down another key three to keep the Firehawks in control.

Crowley's Ridge made multiple pushes down the stretch, cutting the deficit to a single possession several times in the final minutes. UT Southern responded each time with poise. Antonio Cochran finished strong inside to halt one run, while Baldwin's physical drives and trips to the line helped maintain composure late.

With the game tied in the final minute, Robinson delivered the decisive moment, knocking down a jumper with nine seconds remaining to give UT Southern a two-point cushion. The Firehawks then forced a contested shot on the final possession to secure the win.

UT Southern shot over 56 percent from the field in the second half and received a strong contribution from its bench, which proved to be the difference in the tight contest.

Baldwin led the Firehawks with 14 points to go along with five rebounds, three assists, and three steals. Robinson followed with 12 points on efficient shooting, while Lentz added 14 points off the bench, including three three-pointers. Harper contributed eight points and came up with a key defensive play late, and Cochran chipped in nine points and five rebounds.

UT Southern now returns to Southern States Athletic Conference play, traveling to Blue Mountain Christian on Saturday, January 10.

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