Albany State edges Lane in overtime thriller, 104-101

ALBANY — Three Albany State Golden Rams scored more than 20 points Thursday night, but it was senior point guard G’Shan Aldridge who delivered in the clutch. Aldridge drove through the lane for a layup with 43 seconds left in overtime to break a 101-101 tie and added a free throw with just four seconds remaining to seal a 104-101 victory over Lane College at Albany State West.

The Lane Dragons led late in regulation, but Albany State’s Kendale Jackson scored with three seconds left to tie the game at 93-93 and force overtime. The game had been a back-and-forth battle from the start.

Shakur Poteat led the Golden Rams with 27 points, while Blaze Wallace added 26 and Kendale Johnson chipped in 22. Wallace also pulled down 14 rebounds, helping Albany State surpass 100 points for the first time this season.

The win improves Albany State’s record to 7-6 overall and 4-2 in the SIAC.

In the women’s matchup, the Golden Rams started strong and held a small lead early, but back-to-back three-pointers from Lane gave the Lady Dragons a 29-27 advantage at halftime. Lane’s full-court press caused problems for Albany State throughout the second half. Even when the Golden Rams broke the press, Lane dominated in the paint, blocking shots and controlling the boards.

The Lady Dragons extended their lead to 16 points in the second half before Albany State’s Breana Griffin hit a three-pointer to spark a late rally.

Keyra Peterson led the Golden Rams with 11 points and 14 rebounds, while Na’Havia Paxton contributed 10 points and 10 rebounds.

The loss drops the Albany State women to 3-6 on the season.

Albany State will host LeMoyne-Owen College in another SIAC doubleheader Saturday at Albany State West. The women’s game tips off at 2 p.m., followed by the men’s game. Admission is free.