CHARLESTON, S.C. — In a thrilling contest that went into overtime, Western Carolina narrowly defeated The Citadel with a final score of 80-78 on Saturday, thanks to a clutch jumper from Bernard Pelote, who ended the game with 24 points.

Pelote contributed significantly to his team’s performance, securing nine rebounds and recording three blocks for the Catamounts, who improved their record to 6-13, with a conference standing of 2-6 in the Southern Conference. Marcus Kell also shined, contributing 19 points while demonstrating impressive shooting skills, going 5 for 10 overall, including a stellar 4 for 7 from beyond the arc. He further bolstered his stats with nine rebounds. Cord Stansberry added to the scoring with 15 points, making a flawless showing from the free-throw line, converting all nine attempts, but struggled from the field with only three makes out of 14 shots, including none from three-point range.

The Citadel, suffering their 11th consecutive defeat, was led by Brody Fox, who posted 19 points, along with seven rebounds and four assists. Christian Moore contributed 18 points and secured eight rebounds, while Cameron Glover chipped in with 16 points for the Bulldogs, whose struggles continued, leaving their record at 5-14 with an 0-8 mark in conference play.

Looking ahead, both teams will be back on the court this Wednesday. Western Carolina will play host to Chattanooga, while The Citadel will travel to face Mercer, seeking to end their losing streak.