BY JAY SLEDGE

In the second game of their conference schedule and the middle leg of a three-game road trip, the Bulldogs faced a challenging matchup against the Talladega College Tornadoes.

The Bulldogs kept the game competitive in the first half, trailing by just four points at the break, 32-28. Jesse Olverson Jr. led the way with 15 points and seven rebounds, including a key three-pointer that helped Wilberforce stay within striking distance. Cali Davis contributed 14 points and added defensive pressure with two steals but struggled to convert consistently, shooting 36% from the field. Despite these efforts, 16 turnovers and a lack of second-chance opportunities made it difficult for Wilberforce to establish momentum.

The second half told a similar story, the Bulldogs fought hard but failed to match Talladega's offensive consistency. The Tornadoes shot an impressive 53.3% from the field, including timely three-pointers from Corey Sands, who finished with 12 points. Meanwhile, the Bulldogs saw their field goal percentage dip to 36.2%, hindered by a 1-of-4 performance at the free-throw line in the second half. Wilberforce also struggled to contain Talladega's Lamont Sams, whose 14 points and late-game dunks helped seal the victory.

As Wilberforce prepares for their next game against Cedarville on Monday, the team will look to address key areas such as ball control and offensive execution. The matchup, just up State Road 42, presents an opportunity for the Bulldogs to reset and regroup as they aim to improve before jumping back into their conference slate on Saturday when they host Rust.