March 16, 2010

Augusta, Ga--For the third straight year Augusta State is headed to the Elite Eight after beating Montevallo 79-71 Tuesday night at Christenberry Fieldhouse.

Ben Madgen led the scoring attack with 28 points while Fred Brathwaite added 25 in the winning effort. Brathwaite was named Southeast Regional Most Valuable Player.

The Jags jumped out to an early lead and took a 41-30 halftime lead. Madgen had connected on two three pointers and made all six free throws in the opening half. Augusta State also forced 10 Montevallo turnovers which led to 19 points for the Jags.

The Falcons did make a run in the second half and got to within three points in the closing five minutes. But the Jags experience paid off down the stretch as they never wavered. Two huge dunks by Alex Smith and Fred Brathwaite sent the crowd into a frenzy as the Jags picked up the win.

Now Augusta will travel to Springfield, Massachusetts for a battle with Bentley next Wednesday night. This marks the third straight trip to the Elite Eight as the Jags made the title game two years ago and then the final four a season ago.