JACKSON, Tenn. - The Union University men's basketball team fell to the University of West Alabama 78-74. The Bulldogs are now 16-10 overall and 11-7 in the Gulf South Conference. The Tigers are now 20-5 overall and 15-3 in conference play. 

The teams repeatedly swapped leads in the first half. A three from JC Clausi at the 16:02 minute mark gave Union their largest lead of the half, 15-10. Two made free throws by Terrandus Smith ended the half tied, 34-34. 

Josh Fleming scored 20 of West Alabama's first 24 points, shooting 6-7 from behind the arc. He scored only four more points the rest of the ball game. 

The second half started with West Alabama at the line to make two free throws to go up, 36-34. The teams began to swap baskets again, a three by Payton Stovall put Union up 47-44. The lead didn't last long as West Alabama scored back to back lay ups. A jumper by LiDonta Hicks-Gentry gave Union their last lead of the game. The Tigers won 78-74. 

Union was led by Hicks-Gentry with 20 points and Smith with 19 points while shooting 4-6 from behind the arc. 

West Alabama was led by Fleming with 24 points, Hardy with 23 points and Tolliver with 18 points. 

Up next for Union is Lee University in Cleveland, Tenn. on Thursday, February 21 at 7 p.m.

-UNION-