LOS ANGELES — Loyola Marymount secured a victory over Southern with a final score of 89-73, thanks to a stellar performance from Alex Merkviladze, who tallied 24 points in the game.
Merkviladze also made a significant contribution on the boards, grabbing seven rebounds for the Lions, who improved their season record to 7-4.
Jevon Porter played a key role as well, adding 14 points to the scoreboard while shooting 5 of 11 from the floor, including 3 out of 5 from three-point range, and pulling down eight rebounds.
Myron Amey Jr. chipped in with 13 points, hitting 5 of 12 shots and successfully converting 2 of 6 attempts from beyond the arc.

For the Jaguars (5-6), Puoch Dobuol had a double-double, finishing the game with 19 points and 10 rebounds.
Michael Jacobs contributed 16 points and dished out four assists, while Cam Amboree added eight points to the team’s total.
Loyola Marymount took charge right from the start, establishing a lead just 15 seconds into the game and maintaining it throughout.
Merkviladze led the offense in the first half, scoring 21 points and helping the Lions to a comfortable 53-28 lead at halftime.
While Southern outperformed Loyola Marymount in the second half, outscoring them by nine points, Porter stood out with eight points after the break, helping to secure the win for his team.

Both teams are set to play again on Sunday, with Loyola Marymount facing North Alabama at home while Southern will hit the road to challenge USC.