ATHENS, Ga. — In an impressive display of skill, De’Shayne Montgomery contributed 22 points in just his second game of the season, leading the Georgia Bulldogs to an 81-65 victory over Charleston Southern on Sunday. This win marks a remarkable start for the team, which now stands at 11-1, the best record for them since the 2001-02 season.

Montgomery, a sophomore who transferred from Mount St. Mary’s, was sidelined for the first nine games of the season due to transfer eligibility regulations. He had made a significant impact in his debut game, scoring 16 points in Georgia’s overwhelming 100-49 win against Buffalo just a few days earlier.

In the game against Charleston Southern, Montgomery showcased his efficiency by sinking 9 of 13 attempts from the floor and grabbing four rebounds. Dakota Leffew also provided a strong offensive boost off the bench with 19 points, while freshman standout Asa Newell added 14 points and seven rebounds as the only starter to reach double figures.

Taje’ Kelly emerged as a key player for the Buccaneers, scoring nine points during a pivotal stretch in the second half. With 6:43 remaining, Georgia held a narrow 68-60 lead. However, the Bulldogs shifted the momentum decisively, holding Charleston Southern scoreless for over four minutes as they launched an 11-0 run, extending their lead to 79-60 with just two minutes left in the game.

Kelly finished as the standout performer for Charleston Southern, recording an impressive 29 points and 10 rebounds, while Lamar Oden Jr. contributed 14 points. As the season progresses, Georgia has built impressive momentum, with a current winning streak of six games and a perfect home record of 8-0. The Bulldogs are set to face South Carolina State on December 29, before starting their Southeastern Conference schedule on January 4 against Mississippi.