Thomas and Blanks lead TSU to big win over Southern

HOUSTON- Chris Thomas scored a game high 25 points and 10 rebounds as Texas Southern opened conference play with an impressive 88-66 win over the visiting Jaguars of Southern University at the HPE Arena Saturday night. 

After overcoming a slow start, the Tigers took their first lead of the night, 19-18 on a Chris Thomas 3-pointer with 8:21 to play in the first half.  It was a lead the Tigers would not surrender as they led 36-28 at the half.

The second half was all TSU as Orlando Coleman's 3-pointer with 8:41 to play in the game gave the Tigers their largest lead 66-51, effectively putting the game out of reach. 

TSU's advantage on the boards (47-30) and their sharp shooting from beyond the arc (13-27) proved to be too much for the visiting Jaguars to overcome. 

Thomas was 9-of-15 from the field and 3-of-4 from beyond the arc.  He was aided by David Blanks who recorded a triple double with 11 points, 10 rebounds, and a game high 16 assist. 

Texas Southern shot 50 percent from the field.  They will face Alcorn State Monday night at the HPE Arena, in what will be a nationally televised game.