MARTIN, Tenn. — In an exciting matchup on Thursday night, Vladimer Salaridze scored 23 points, leading the University of Tennessee at Martin to a 68-63 victory over Eastern Illinois.
Salaridze also contributed significantly off the boards, securing six rebounds for the Skyhawks, who now hold an 8-10 record and are 4-3 in the Ohio Valley Conference. Tarence Guinyard played a key role as well, tallying 18 points and grabbing eight rebounds for the team.

The Panthers, on the other hand, saw Artese Stapleton emerge as their top scorer, finishing the game with 16 points and six rebounds. Nakyel Shelton made an impact with 15 points and two blocks, while Zion Fruster added 12 points of his own. Eastern Illinois is currently at 5-12 overall and 1-5 in conference play.

Both teams are set to return to action on Saturday. UT Martin will host SIU-Edwardsville, while Eastern Illinois is scheduled to visit Tennessee State.