Opportunity knocked and T.J. Pruitt answered

The freshman from Huntsville scored a game-high 23 to lead the Shelton State Community College men's basketball team to a 111-80 win over Coastal Alabama South on Thursday night. 

The 23 points and eight made field goals were both career highs.

"I'd like to thank Coach (Joe Eatmon) for giving me the opportunity tonight," Pruitt said. "I have been out there a lot lately, but tonight when my number was called, I was ready. I'm happy with the way things went tonight."

Pruitt had scored only 24 points (9 made FG) in his previous eight games.

Shelton State hit the century mark for the third time this season. The 111 points are fourth most by the Bucs under Eatmon, and second most in an ACCC game.

The game was close until the Bucs took a double-digit lead late in the first half. The Bucs turned the game into a run-away in the second half.

Including Pruitt, the Bucs had five players in double figures.

Freshman King Larkin had 19 points (6-of-10 FG) and four rebounds. Larkin had scored only 26 points in his previous eight games.

Pruitt and Larkin combined for 42 points on 14-of-19 (.763), including six 3-pointers.

Sophomores Marchello Perkins and Shah Hall both had 13 points. Perkins added seven rebounds.

Freshman Rodwick Jackson continued his solid play, adding 12 points and four rebounds. He had 40 points and 25 rebounds in his last three games.

Coastal Alabama (6-17, 1-5 ACCC) had two players with 20 points, including Makhi Jones (26) and Jaden Champion (23), who combined for 49 points on 19-of-40 shooting.

Shelton State returns the floor on Monday, Feb. 9 at Wallace State Hanceville. The game was originally scheduled for Jan. 19 but was postponed due to weather and travel issues.