Albany, Ga. — The Albany State Golden Rams earned their first SIAC victory of the season in dramatic fashion, defeating Savannah State 78–74 in an overtime showdown. In front of an energetic home crowd, the Golden Rams showcased grit, poise, and timely playmaking to secure the hard-fought conference win and move to 1–2 in league play.

From the opening minutes, the game unfolded as a back-and-forth battle marked by scoring runs, defensive stands, and a handful of lead changes. Albany State built a 42–37 advantage at halftime, but Savannah State refused to go away, clawing back and forcing overtime on a buzzer-beating layup.

Once the extra period tipped off, the Golden Rams seized control—playing some of their most composed basketball of the night. A clutch three-pointer from Kendale Johnson opened overtime, and the Rams never trailed again.

While the effort was collective, Shakur Poteat stole the night with a game-high 24 points, hitting five threes and shooting an efficient 7-of-8 from the floor. Poteat's confidence and composure kept the Golden Rams steady during critical moments, and his aggressive defense contributed to an already strong performance.

Cameron Evans also played a pivotal role, contributing 11 points and pulling down seven rebounds while absorbing heavy minutes and handling defensive assignments along the perimeter. His free throws and steady presence late helped keep the Rams in control.

Albany State dominated the glass throughout the night, finishing with 42 total rebounds, and that edge proved essential in overtime. Christian Gary powered the Rams inside, collecting 10 rebounds—seven of them defensive—and adding nine points, including a string of crucial plays that shifted the momentum in ASU's favor. Off the bench, Joseph Frazier gave the Golden Rams a physical spark, finishing with six rebounds and seven points while helping ASU keep possessions alive during key stretches.

Kendale Johnson delivered 10 points, including the overtime-opening three that changed the energy in the building, while Jeremiah Edwards chipped in nine points and logged valuable minutes as a stabilizing force at both guard spots.

With the victory, Albany State captures its first SIAC triumph of the season and gains valuable momentum heading into a busy stretch of conference play.

Up Next: The Golden Rams remain home for their next SIAC matchup on Saturday, December 13, hosting Edward Waters immediately following the women's game at 2:00 PM. Ram Nation is encouraged to pack The Arena once again as Albany State looks to build on Thursday night's breakthrough performance.

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ABOUT ALBANY STATE ATHLETICS
Albany State University is a National Collegiate Athletic Association (NCAA) Division II-level intercollegiate athletic program. The university currently fields teams in 11 sports: women's volleyball, women's tennis, women's cross country, men's and women's basketball, softball, men's and women's track and field, women's soccer, baseball, and football with all teams compete in the Southern Intercollegiate Athletic Conference (SIAC), except women's soccer, which participates in the Peach Belt Conference.