CHARLESTON – Wednesday night, Charleston Southern suited up for its fifth Big South game against USC Upstate. The Spartans defeated CSU by five, winning in overtime, 85–81.
After 19 minutes of unrelenting competition, the Bucs held only a one-possession, three-point lead (38–35). With 29 seconds remaining in the first half, a Brycen Blaine three-pointer sent both teams to their locker rooms separated by six (41–35).
The hosting Buccaneers led by as many as eight in the second half, but two turnovers and no made field goals in the final three minutes evaporated the CSU advantage. At the end of regulation, Upstate and CSU found themselves tied at 72–72, sending Charleston Southern into overtime for the second consecutive contest on its home floor.
The A'lahn Sumler and Brycen Blaine show continued in overtime, as the backcourt duo scored seven of the team's nine overtime points. Unfortunately for the home club, those nine points were not enough, as USC Upstate won the game, 86–81—their first Big South victory of the season.
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Notables:
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A'lahn Sumler would score a career-high 35 points Wednesday night, adding 5 assists and 5 rebounds as well.
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Brycen Blaine posted his sixth double-double of the season, recording 26 points and 11 rebounds.
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Upstate outrebounded CSU on the offensive glass 16-7, leading to a wide 20-0 second chance points margin.
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CSU would leave 12 points unclaimed at the free-throw line, only converting 52% of their charity attempts. The 52% mark is their third worst of the season.
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Reis Jones and Devin Brafford continued their rim protecting ways as each big man swatted three shots a piece.
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Up Next:
After six days of no competition, CSU will play their next contest on January 21st at Presbyterian College. The game will be played at 7:00 PM and will be broadcast on ESPN+.
To see a full sit-down conversation with Coach Nimley discussing the Bucs' next opponents and previous game recaps, watch the "2025-2026 Nimley Coaches Show" on CSUsports.com, X/Twitter, or YouTube.
For all the most up-to-date coverage involving CSU Men's Basketball, follow us on Instagram and X/Twitter @csu_mbball.
