MOUNT BERRY, Ga. - In an electric season opener at The Cage Center, the Berry Vikings rallied to a 76-68 victory over LaGrange, marking Head Coach Matt Richter's first win and an exhilarating start to the season. 

From the start, Berry played with intensity, quickly establishing a lead and holding LaGrange at a distance for most of the game. SAA Athlete of the Week Braxton Benham set the pace, scoring 21 points and delivering 8 assists to keep Berry's offense running smoothly.

Benham's scoring versatility was on full display as he sank mid-range shots, drove to the basket, and picked apart LaGrange's defense with pinpoint passes, helping Berry maintain control despite several comeback attempts by their opponents.

In the first half, Berry gained momentum as Jacob Morgan dominated the boards. Morgan's rebounding was crucial in extending possessions, as he finished with 11 rebounds, leading the team to a staggering 16 second-chance points. Morgan's presence under the basket neutralized LaGrange's big men and gave Berry the edge in critical moments, allowing them to close the first half up by six.

The second half saw the Panthers attempt to close the gap, but Berry's defense and timely shooting kept them in check. Isaac Martin's three-point shooting proved critical, as he connected on five shots from beyond the arc, each one stopping LaGrange's momentum just when they seemed poised to make a run. 

As the clock wound down, the Vikings defense tightened. The Vikings held LaGrange scoreless in several key possessions, and when they did break through, Berry's players were quick to force turnovers and convert fast-break opportunities.

Berry now sits at 1-2 on the season, but looks to keep the winning momentum full steam ahead for Saturday to take on the Gents at Centenary College.