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Despite falling short in Orlando, Furman’s Paladins showed grit, fight, and flashes of brilliance in a 72–65 loss to Illinois State, signaling a team ready to compete as the season heats up.
Paladins fight hard but fall short in Imagination Bracket final
ORLANDO, Fla. — Furman’s Paladins battled with determination Friday afternoon at State Farm Field House, staying competitive through most of the game before Illinois State pulled away late for a 72–65 win. From the opening tip, Furman showed no fear, moving the ball with purpose, attacking the basket, and executing as though championship expectations weighed heavy.
Freshman guard Alex Wilkins led the charge early, scoring on quick drives, crafty floaters, and mid-range jumpers. While the Paladins never held a significant lead, they kept the Redbirds within striking distance, contesting every possession and forcing turnovers when opportunities arose. The bench contributed with hustle plays, tipping balls into transition opportunities and grabbing key offensive rebounds that turned into second-chance points. By halftime, Furman trailed 36–33, still very much in the game despite Illinois State’s controlled tempo.
Furman stays in striking distance
The Paladins’ resilience was on display in the second half. Illinois State came out strong, opening with a 13–4 run fueled by inside scoring and offensive rebounds. Ty Pence and Chase Walker pushed the Redbirds ahead, but Wilkins kept Furman within range, converting a floater and a mid-range jumper to slow the Redbirds’ momentum. The bench played a key role during this stretch, hustling for loose balls, crashing the offensive glass, and delivering timely passes that allowed Furman to remain competitive.
Furman’s defense and focus allowed them to trim the deficit to 64–59 with five minutes remaining. Wilkins hit a pull-up jumper and helped force a defensive stop, briefly reigniting the crowd and hinting at a late-game comeback. The Paladins’ effort showed that while Illinois State had the advantage, Furman could not be easily shaken.
Closing stretch: fight to the final buzzer
Despite Furman’s push, Illinois State responded with a six-point run that included fast-break layups and a key free throw, extending their lead. In the final two minutes, Furman continued pressing, with Wilkins scoring a floater and creating a three-point attempt off a steal. But the Redbirds’ poise, depth, and control of the boards made a comeback impossible. Illinois State ultimately secured the 72–65 victory.
Though Furman never held a lead, the Paladins displayed grit, composure, and flashes of offensive creativity that kept the game close. Wilkins finished with 25 points, carrying the team through critical stretches, and the bench showed that Furman has depth capable of contributing in high-pressure moments.
Lessons and what’s next
The loss drops Furman to 4–4 on the season, but the performance offered plenty of positives. The Paladins matched a disciplined, balanced opponent shot for shot for long stretches, fought hard in transition, and displayed resilience even when trailing. The game also highlighted areas for growth — finishing possessions, converting key rebounds, and managing late-game execution — lessons that will be invaluable as the Southern Conference schedule approaches.
Friday’s afternoon showdown may not have had primetime lights, but it was a test of heart, poise, and teamwork. Furman left Orlando with proof that it can compete with top-tier opponents and that its young roster has the skill and tenacity to challenge anyone on any given day. For fans and beat readers, it was a performance worth remembering, not for the final score, but for the fight the Paladins showed throughout.
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