Charleston Southern University’s men’s basketball team achieved a significant win Thursday night, defeating the Winthrop Eagles 86-84 at home. This victory marked CSU’s first win over Winthrop since 2019 and their tenth home victory of the season, a milestone last reached in the 2018-19 campaign.
The game began with Winthrop’s Daylen Berry scoring two early baskets. Charleston Southern responded with contributions from Lase Olalere, Jaquias Franklin, and Jesse Hafemeister to take a 10-6 lead by the first media timeout. Point guard Luke Williams made his return to play after being out with an injury since January 14.
Both teams struggled offensively during a stretch in the first half, but Jaquias Franklin helped spark CSU’s offense with back-to-back three-pointers. His efforts gave the Buccaneers a six-point advantage and later helped extend their lead to eight before halftime, as CSU led 42-36 at the break.
In the second half, both teams traded leads until Winthrop briefly pulled ahead 65-64 with just under seven minutes remaining. Franklin then scored ten points during a key run that put Charleston Southern up by seven points late in the game. Additional baskets from A’lahn Sumler and Jesse Hafemeister, along with successful free throws, secured the win for CSU.
Franklin led all scorers with 24 points after having only three field goals in conference play prior to this game. Sumler contributed 20 points along with eight rebounds and seven assists, marking his ninth game of conference play with more than twenty points. Hafemeister also scored in double figures, finishing with sixteen points and six rebounds while shooting efficiently from both three-point range and overall.
Charleston Southern will conclude its regular season on Saturday against UNC Asheville. The game is scheduled for a 2:00 PM start and will be broadcast on ESPN+.
“After only making three combined field goals in Big South play before Thursday night, Jaquias Franklin led all scorers with 24 points.”
“A’lahn Sumler would record his 9th 20+ point performance of conference play with 20 points, 8 rebounds, and 7 assists vs Winthrop.”
“Jesse Hafemeister also entered double-figures with 16 points and 6 boards – shooting 50% (4/8) from three and 60% overall (6/10).”
“CSU achieved their 10th home win in a single-season for the first time since 2018-19.”
“CSU beat the Eagles Thursday night for the first time since 2019.”
