Senators come close, can’t get past Dyersburg State

MORRISTOWN, TN – Walters State cut a Dyersburg State deficit to four late on Saturday afternoon and had the ball but weren't able to capitalize, falling 73-66. 

With the loss, the Senators fall to 4-3 on the season and 2-2 in TCCAA play. 

"We just couldn't get out of the hole," Walters State coach Bill Carlyle said. "You have to give Dyersburg credit. They played hard and quick and are aggressive. They can play. We just didn't match the way they played. We definitely missed (De'Marius) Boyd and Destin (Barker) today."

The Senators were led by Josh Jerome. Jerome poured in 23 points in the game for Walters State and added 17 rebounds. Jerome was 8-13 from the field and 6-7 from the free-throw line. 

However, Jerome was the only one to score in double figures. Ijesuoefe Iyamu added nine while Javontay Rollings had eight. 

The Senators shot 32.7% from the field and 80% from the free-throw line. Dyersburg shot 43.6% from the field. 

Walters State struggled in the game without leading scorer De'Marius Boyd and Destin Barker, failing to convert on some open looks all throughout the game.

"We had shot after shot, and we were afraid to shoot it," Carlyle said. "We were afraid they were going to block it. We just have to keep trying to get better."

Walters State got off to a quick start as they jumped up early 8-4 as Ronnie Thompson Jr. scored four quick points. However, Dyersburg came back to take a 16-11 lead before Walters State answered again.

This time, Riley Cooper and Iyamu hit shots to make it a one-point game before an Izaiah Bredwood gave the Senators an 18-17 lead. 

Walters State would then lead 29-20 as Iyamu and Jerome took control. Unfortunately for Walters State, the lead would not hold as Dyersburg closed the half strong and led 38-36. 

In the second half, Dyersburg came out strong and built a 12-point lead. Walters State would continue to fight and cut the lead to four with five minutes to go. The Senators got a stop but turned the ball over and fouled, allowing Dyersburg to take back control.

Walters State had one last push left in them, getting the lead back down to four with 1:59 left. But a missed layup gave Dyersburg the ball back and they held on for the victory.

Jerome had 10 points in the half while Rollings had six. 

Up Next: 

Walters State will be back in action on Monday as they host Tusculum JV. Tip is set for 6:30 p.m. 

Rob Harvey

Walters State Community College

Sports Information Director

Cell: (423) 779-8880

Email: sportsinfo@ws.edu

Website: www.ws.edu/athletics