TALLADEGA, Ala. – The Talladega College Tornadoes closed out their participation in the HBCU Athletic Conference Crossover with an impressive 85-69 victory over the University of the Virgin Islands Buccaneers on January 6, 2025, at the Student Activity Center.

Talladega improved to 10-7 overall with the win, while Virgin Islands fell to 4-6 on the season. The Tornadoes dominated from the start, taking a commanding 42-27 lead at halftime. Talladega's offense was efficient, finishing the game with a shooting percentage of 61.2%, including 40% from beyond the arc.

Lamont Sams was a standout for the Tornadoes, leading the team with 22 points on 8-of-10 shooting. He also contributed six rebounds and two assists. Shaun Walker followed closely with 20 points, hitting 8 of 13 attempts from the field, and adding 13 rebounds for a double-double.

Talladega's strong performance in the paint was evident, as they outscored the Buccaneers 48-20 in that category. The Tornadoes also capitalized on turnovers, scoring 21 points off miscues by UVI.

The Tornadoes continued to extend their lead in the second half, with their largest advantage reaching 21 points in the second period. They finished the game with a balanced scoring effort and maintained their composure at the free-throw line, converting 21 of 29 attempts.