Pirates Split Weekend Battles

The Pensacola State Pirates showcased resilience, depth, and competitive determination across back‑to‑back performances this weekend.

Pirates Come Up Just Short in 89-86 Battle With Calhoun

Pensacola State opened the weekend with a high‑intensity matchup against Calhoun that came down to the final possessions. The Pirates struggled early as Calhoun established offensive rhythm from the opening tip, making it difficult for PSC to gain defensive traction during the first stretch of the game.

Calhoun guards Tahir Bond and Jordan Johnson were the driving forces behind their team's success. Bond delivered a standout two‑way performance, finishing with 26 points, seven assists, and three steals while also limiting PSC's leading scorer to 6‑for‑21 shooting and forcing five turnovers. Johnson added seventeen points, providing steady scoring support.

Pensacola State's own miscues added to the challenge, as the Pirates committed a season‑high 17 turnovers and shot just 28% from beyond the arc. Despite those setbacks, PSC rallied and built a lead that grew to 11 points with six minutes remaining. However, late turnovers and missed opportunities allowed Calhoun to surge back and reclaim control in the closing moments.

The loss overshadowed several impressive individual performances for PSC.

• Sean Owens knocked down seven 3‑pointers and finished with a game‑high 29 points.
• Malick Sene recorded a double‑double with 10 points and 10 rebounds.
• Deven Bates added a double‑double of 16 points and eleven assists.
• Josh Middlebrooks delivered a career performance with 20 points, eight rebounds, and six steals.

Pirates Bounce Back in Dominant 67-46 Win Over Coastal Alabama North

Pensacola State responded decisively the following day, shaking off the previous night's loss with a strong performance against Coastal Alabama North. After allowing an early three‑pointer, the Pirates quickly took control and never looked back, setting the tone with defensive pressure and disciplined execution.

PSC forced 20 turnovers while committing only six, highlighting the team's improved focus and ball security. The Pirates' offensive movement was equally impressive, assisting on 19 of their 21 made field goals and demonstrating unselfish play and sharp decision‑making.

Depth played an important role in the win.

• Off the bench, Josh Middlebrooks led the team with 17 points, five rebounds, and three steals, providing energy at both ends of the floor.
• Deven Bates continued his strong weekend with 13 points, four assists, and four steals.
• Malick Sene anchored the paint again, contributing nine points and eight rebounds.

It was a complete team effort defined by defensive intensity, ball movement, and depth, as Pensacola State controlled the game from start to finish and continued to build confidence and momentum.