Kent State University
7-3,0-0MAC
Cleveland State University
6-5,1-1Horizon
Flashes Finish 2023 Home Games With a Win Against the Vikings
12/9/2023 4:48:00 PM | Men's Basketball
Kent, OH -The Flashes finished the non-conference schedule at home with an 83–77 victory over Cleveland State this afternoon.
The Vikings came out with a lot of energy putting the first couple of points on the board. Despite the Vikings' energy on the court and off the bench, the Flashes answered with Reggie Bass popping up a three to extend their lead.
With an impressive 6-0 run, the Flashes finished the first half up 18 points on the Vikings, going 46-28 at the half. This significant lead wouldn't have been possible without dominating performances from Chris Payton Jr., Jalen Sullinger, and Cli'Ron Hornbeak. From Payton's electrifying dunks to Sullinger being 4 for 5 from the three, and Hornbeak going a perfect 7 for 7, the Flashes continued to gain momentum. Both Sullinger and Hornbeak left the first half with 11 points each.
Although Cleveland State made it tough for the Golden Flashes at the beginning of the first half, the Vikings did not capitalize from the free throw line going 0-for -6 in the first half. Kent State continued to capitalize on their first-half success entering the second. The Flashes started strong with a layup from VonCameron Davis and only went up.
Chris Payton Jr. commanded the game from start to finish, ending the night with 18 points and a career-high 20 rebounds. Cli'Ron Hornbeak was just shy of his career high of 16 points with an outstanding 15 and six rebounds this afternoon. Their teammate Jalen Sullinger contributed 16 points and Giovanni Santiago recorded 11 points to the Flashes' win over Cleveland State.
As a whole, the Flashes outshot the Vikings from every category shooting 55.4 percent from the field, 35.7 percent from the three, and 59.3 percent from the free throw line. The Flashes look forward to finishing a tough non-conference schedule on the road against both Oregon and Saint Mary's College.
Follow the Flashes
Next up, the Golden Flashes will be on the road to face Oregon on Thursday, Dec. 21, and then will travel to California on Friday, Dec. 29. Tickets for the 2023-24 season are on sale now. For questions regarding ticket information, email athletictickets@kent.edu or call 330-672-4455.
For more information on the men's basketball team, follow Kent State Men's Basketball on Twitter, Facebook, and Instagram, and visit kentstatesports.com for additional updates.
