ATHENS, Ga. — In an impressive debut, Asa Newell tallied 26 points, matching the record for the most points scored by a Georgia freshman in their first game. The Bulldogs narrowly defeated Tennessee Tech with a score of 83-78 on Monday night.

Newell made both the first and last field goals for Georgia in this contest. With just 2:50 left on the clock, Tennessee Tech had an opportunity to narrow the gap, but Newell thwarted their efforts with a critical chase-down block on a layup attempt. He then converted an offensive rebound into a basket, extending Georgia’s lead to 78-71.

The towering six-foot-eleven player showcased his skills with a shooting performance of 13 out of 22 from the floor and secured 11 rebounds during the match.

The contest remained tightly contested throughout, with no team managing a lead of more than nine points.

In the closing moments, Georgia only converted one of two free throws for the second time within the final minute. However, Tennessee Tech could not take advantage, as Mekhi Cameron’s long-range three-pointer missed the mark, allowing the Bulldogs to run down the clock and secure the victory.

In addition to Newell’s standout performance, Dakota Leffew contributed 18 points off the bench and drained four three-pointers. Former Clemson player RJ Godfrey also made a mark, achieving his first career double-double with 10 points and 10 rebounds.

For Tennessee Tech, Cameron was the standout scorer, finishing with 21 points, while his teammates Layton and Johnson added 14 and 12 points, respectively, with Johnson also handing out seven assists.

The Golden Eagles are looking to improve after finishing last season with a 10-21 record under coach John Pelphrey’s fifth year in charge at Cookeville.