In Pensacola, Florida, Taryn Todd played a crucial role in leading Arkansas State to a 77-74 victory over Marshall in the Sun Belt Conference Tournament quarterfinals on Saturday. Todd, who scored 19 points, also contributed four steals to assist the Red Wolves, seeded fourth, in moving forward to confront the leading seed South Alabama on Sunday.
The Red Wolves, with a season record of 23-9, also benefited from Terrance Ford Jr.’s performance, as he added 18 points. Ford achieved this by making six out of 13 field goals, including two from beyond the arc, and he was perfect on four attempts from the free-throw line. Additionally, he contributed five rebounds to the team’s effort. Kobe Julien also chipped in with 13 points, shooting six out of 14 from the field.
Marshall, the fifth seed with a record of 19-13, saw a standout performance from Obinna Anochili-Killen, who posted 26 points, 13 rebounds, and eight blocks. The Thundering Herd also relied on Dezayne Mingo, who recorded 14 points, eight rebounds, and six assists, while Mikal Dawson also contributed 14 points.
Arkansas State managed a slight advantage at halftime, leading Marshall 39-36. Todd had already accumulated 12 points by the break. The decisive moment came late in the second half when Ford hit a jump shot with just over two minutes to play, securing a 73-71 lead that Arkansas State held to the end.
