Raiders open new year with road win

CAMDEN, Ark. — What's better than opening 2023 with a victory? How about stopping a five-game losing streak in the process.

The Raiders held Southern Arkansas University Tech to just 32 percent shooting from the field (19-for-60) as they rallied past the Rockets 60-56 Monday night.

“Best defense we've had all year,” Three Rivers coach Brian Bess said. “It was a good way to start the second half and the new year.”

The win was the first for Three Rivers (6-9) since the Raiders defeated Motlow State on Thanksgiving night.

“We've had a lot of little injuries and stuff,” Bess said. “We've had a lot of flu and a lot of other stuff, but we had a good week of practice.”

SAU Tech (11-6) led 31-26 at half behind 18 points from Allen Taylor, but the Raiders shut the big man down after the intermission, limiting him to three second-half points.

“(Assistant) coach (Trey) Rakes made an adjustment at halftime and we trapped him when he came off ball screens,” Bess said. “That was the difference.”

Another boost for Three Rivers was the return of big man Hosana Kitenge, who saw his first action since Dec. 7. His inside presence was crucial Monday, Bess said.

“Hosana sticking it in the hole down late was a turning point,” Bess said. “He's a difference maker. He's a great leader and he had all the guys playing together.”

Mo Niang led Three Rivers with 17 points, while Hosana Kitenge added 13 and Makur Jongkuch finished with 10.

“Mo Niang is shooting the ball well,” Bess said.

The Rockets outrebounded Three Rivers 40-39. Jordan Hamilton led Three Rivers with seven boards, while Kitenge added six. Lamont Jackson had five steals.

The Raiders are back in action Thursday when they head to Carterville, Ill. to take on national power John A. Logan. The Volunteers outlasted Three Rivers 99-95 in overtime on Nov. 5 at the Libla Family Sports Complex.