BIRMINGHAM, Ala. — East Tennessee State secured a hard-fought 65-60 victory against Samford on Saturday night, thanks in large part to Quimari Peterson, who netted 19 points and contributed five assists for the Buccaneers. The team improved their record to 11-8 overall and 4-2 in the Southern Conference.

Alongside Peterson, Jaden Seymour played a pivotal role, scoring 16 points and pulling down 10 rebounds to record a double-double. Maki Johnson also contributed by scoring 11 points, although he struggled with his shooting, finishing the night 4 for 12 from the field, including 3 for 11 from beyond the arc. He also managed to register three steals in the game.

For Samford, who fell to 15-4 overall and 5-1 in the conference, Rylan Jones was the standout performer with 12 points and four assists. Collin Holloway made a significant impact as well, adding a double-double with 10 points and 10 rebounds. Josh Holloway rounded out the scoring with nine points and four assists. This loss snapped a commendable six-game winning streak for the Bulldogs.

The match saw a balanced first half, with Seymour leading East Tennessee State with nine points as the teams entered halftime tied at 29-29. The Buccaneers came out strong in the second half, launching a crucial 7-0 run that shifted the momentum and put them ahead 50-45 with 6:49 left on the clock. Peterson was key during this stretch, scoring 12 points in the second half to help secure the win for East Tennessee State.