Paul Quinn Battles Hard but Falls to Arlington Baptist in Season Opener, 89–74

Despite the loss, the Tigers showed plenty of promise offensively, connecting on 43.5% of their three-point attempts and seeing several players step up with double-digit performances. However, Arlington Baptist's relentless transition attack and dominance inside proved too much to overcome.

Fast Start and Offensive Fireworks

Both teams came out firing in a high-paced first half that featured strong shooting and aggressive play. Arlington Baptist built a 52–43 halftime lead behind efficient scoring from senior guard Davione Allen, who tallied 20 points on 7-of-11 shooting, and forward Gary Gray, who notched a near double-double with 16 points and 8 rebounds.

Paul Quinn kept the game close early thanks to hot perimeter shooting, hitting five of their nine first-half three-pointers (55.6%). LeShawn Hammett Jr. sparked the Tigers off the bench with 17 points, including five triples, providing a much-needed scoring punch.

Second Half: Arlington Baptist Maintains Control

After halftime, the Patriots' depth and physicality began to take over. Arlington dominated the paint, outscoring Paul Quinn 54–24 inside and converting 38 points off turnovers, taking advantage of the Tigers' 23 miscues.

For Paul Quinn, Rhasod Ballard led the starting lineup with a steady 13 points and 7 rebounds, while Mekhi Johnson added 14 points and 7 boards of his own. John Harrison chipped in 5 points, 8 rebounds, and 4 assists, showing leadership on both ends. Freshman guard Jordan Hicks made an impact in limited minutes, going a perfect 2-for-2 from beyond the arc.

By the Numbers

• Field Goal %: PQC 40.7% | ABU 45.7%
• 3-Point %: PQC 43.5% | ABU 23.5%
• Free Throws: PQC 20-28 (71.4%) | ABU 21-30 (70%)
• Rebounds: Tied at 44 apiece
• Points off Turnovers: ABU 38 | PQC 10
• Bench Points: PQC 35 | ABU 32

Tigers Show Depth and Promise

While turnovers and interior defense were key areas of concern, the Tigers' balanced scoring and bench contributions were bright spots. Paul Quinn's reserves accounted for nearly half of the team's total points, signaling strong depth heading into the rest of the season.

"We played with good energy and shot the ball well in stretches," said Head Coach [insert name if known]. "Now it's about cleaning up the turnovers and staying disciplined defensively. We'll get there."

Looking Ahead

The loss drops Paul Quinn to 0–1 on the season. The Tigers will look to regroup and continue improving as they prepare for their next home matchup. With balanced scoring, improved three-point efficiency, and a deep rotation, PQC has plenty to build on moving forward