ATHENS, Ga. — In a thrilling match on Sunday, Tyrin Lawrence emerged as a key player for the Georgia Bulldogs, contributing 14 points, 13 of which came during a remarkable second half comeback. Georgia managed to overturn a significant 17-point deficit, ultimately defeating South Carolina State with a score of 79-72, marking their seventh consecutive victory and closing out nonconference play for both teams.

During the first half, Lawrence struggled to make an impact, recording just a single free throw as the Bulldogs (12-1) found themselves trailing 41-24 at halftime. However, he showcased his skills after the break, hitting 4 of 6 shots, including a critical 3-pointer, and converting all four of his free throw attempts to help lay the foundation for Georgia’s resurgence on their home court, where they now sport a perfect 9-0 record.

RJ Godfrey also shone for Georgia, matching Lawrence’s scoring with 14 points while contributing six rebounds. Additionally, Asa Newell and Dakota Leffew, who came off the bench, both added 12 points to the Bulldogs’ tally. Silas Demary Jr. registered 11 points alongside five rebounds, and De’Shayne Montgomery chipped in 10 points from the bench.

For South Carolina State (6-9), it was Jayden Johnson who led the scoring chart with 16 points, followed by Michael Teal with 13 points and Wilson Dubinsky contributing 12 points, all three players coming off the bench. Johnson’s prowess was evident in the first half, where he netted 14 points, including two crucial 3-pointers in the final half-minute before halftime, propelling South Carolina State to their early lead.

Newell was instrumental in igniting Georgia’s comeback, scoring all 12 of his points in the second half, while Demary, who managed just a free throw in the first half, exploded for 10 points in the team’s strong performance after the break. The pivotal moment came when Georgia finally gained the lead with back-to-back three-point plays by Lawrence, pushing the score to 60-55 with 6:44 remaining in the match. From that point onward, the Bulldogs maintained their advantage and secured the victory.

Since their last defeat against then-No. 15 Marquette, Georgia has shown resilience and strength on the court. Looking ahead, they will face No. 16 Mississippi in their Southeastern Conference opener on Saturday, while South Carolina State will head to Morgan State for their Mid-Eastern Athletic Conference opener on the same day.