DAHLONEGA — Through a combination of missed shots and a top-scoring Georgia Southwestern offense, the University of North Georgia men's basketball team dropped their first game on the opening day of the brand new Convocation Center, 84-66.
 
Despite GSW being first on the board, Shaquan Cantrell was the first Nighthawk to score in the new Convocation Center, driving to the basket for a layup.
 
GSW established their lead early in the first, 9-2. Carrod Watson scored next for UNG, and Ebo Smith and Tyler Dominy performances narrowed the gap to 17-12, but the Hurricanes pulled away thanks to a 14-0 run. Two Charles Perry threes and a Cantrell dunk, the Nighthawks were able to catch up to 38-20 by the half.
 
GSW came out strong in the second half with several baskets, extending their lead to 48-22, prompting Dominy to respond with a three. Another three from Smith and a Dominy basket and free throw made the score 51-32. But despite North Georgia efforts, the Canes extended their lead.
 
Bennett Fuzak and Watson shot back-to-back threes later in the period, 66-46, but the Canes continued their offensive performance for the 84-66 win.
 
It was an emotional Saturday for the UNG community with the opening of the Convocation Center and Homecoming 2018 festivities that included performances from the Boar's Head Brigade Patriot Choir, Color Guard, Saber Arch, Loyal Blue Pep Band, the Nighthawk Drumline, followed by a presentation of the Seniors, honoring their final season as a Nighthawk.
 
NOTES
- Three UNG players finished in double figures: Watson (17), Dominy (10) and Smith (10). Dominy finished with a double-double with 10 points and 10 rebounds.
 
- GSW's John Mason was the top scorer overall with 21 points.
 
NEXT UP
The men's basketball team clinched a No. 6 seed spot in the Peach Belt Conference Quarterfinals which is set for Wednesday, February 28, at Francis Marion. Tip off time is TBD.