JACKSONVILLE, Ala. — Jaron Pierre Jr. made a significant impact on the game, scoring 28 points to lead Jacksonville State to a thrilling 85-83 victory over Western Kentucky on Saturday evening.

Pierre’s performance included shooting 9 of 18 from the field, with three of eight from beyond the arc, and he also excelled at the free-throw line, hitting 7 of 8 attempts. His efforts contributed to the Gamecocks’ impressive record of 17 wins and 7 losses, holding a strong 9-2 position in Conference USA. Alongside him, Koree Cotton added 13 points while contributing six rebounds and three steals, and Jao Ituka matched that score with 13 points as well, going 4 of 8 from the field and 3 of 4 from the line. This win marked the Gamecocks’ eighth consecutive victory.

On the other side, the Hilltoppers, boasting a record of 14-10 and 5-6 in the conference, were led by Khristian Lander, who scored an impressive 30 points and registered two steals. Tyrone Marshall also had a notable appearance, contributing 22 points and securing seven rebounds, while Braxton Bayless rounded out the scoring for Western Kentucky with 15 points, four assists, and two steals.

In the first half, Pierre scored 14 points, helping the Gamecocks keep pace, although they went into halftime trailing 44-38. The second half saw Pierre once again leading the charge with another 14 points, as the game unfolded with an exhilarating sequence of nine lead changes and being tied on eight occasions before Jacksonville State clinched the win.

Looking ahead, Jacksonville State is set to face Sam Houston on the road this Thursday, while Western Kentucky prepares to host Middle Tennessee on Saturday.