Barnes Drops Career High as Eagles Dominate Reid State

An MCC Eagles player is introduced before the home game against the LA Knights, walking through a tunnel of teammates who slap his hands in greeting on the home court. Players in warmup shirts that read
An MCC Eagles player is introduced before the home game against the LA Knights, walking through a tunnel of teammates who slap his hands in greeting on the home court. Players in warmup shirts that read "Fear" form the welcome line in the Eagles' gymnasium.
Video Box Score
November 24, 2025

MERIDIAN, Miss. – The Meridian Community College men's basketball team closed out its pre-Thanksgiving schedule on a high note Saturday afternoon, defeating Reid State Technical College 74–53 inside Graham Gymnasium.

Playing in front of an energetic home crowd — including families and young dancers from the Little Eaglettes Dance Clinic, who performed at halftime alongside the MCC Dance Team — the Eagles delivered an impressive all-around performance to improve to 3–4 on the season.

The first half featured a competitive back-and-forth battle, with both teams trading baskets and momentum. Freshman KJ Barnes caught fire from deep, draining three three-pointers in the opening half to give the Eagles a 32–27 advantage heading into the locker room.

The second half began much like the first, with the Lions hanging close before the Eagles turned up the pace and pulled away late. Meridian's offense found its rhythm, fueled by hot shooting and solid defensive pressure, while the crowd came alive for the halftime performers and second-half surge.

Barnes led all scorers with a career-high 28 points, including five three-pointers, pacing the Eagles' attack. Freshman Fred Motley continued his strong early-season form with 13 points, and freshman Mario Forbes added 12.

Despite a game that featured four technical fouls between both teams, Meridian maintained focus and composure, closing out the game with confidence.

Head Coach Clarence Weatherspoon was pleased to see his team respond heading into the break.

"This was a great team win for us," Weatherspoon said. "We needed this one. I'm proud of the way our guys played in front of a great home crowd and how they finished strong down the stretch."

With the victory, the Eagles enter Thanksgiving Break with momentum and a week to reset before returning home to host William Carey JV on Tuesday, December 2, at 7:30 p.m. inside Graham Gymnasium.

For game highlights, visit YouTube.

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