By: Norman O'Neal

The Voorhees University Tigers faced a close contest in their recent HBCU Athletic Conference Game against Stillman College on December 4, 2025. Education was the theme for the game where over seven hundred Pk-12 students came to cheer on the Tigers! The game, held at the Leonard E. Dawson Health and Human Resources Center in Denmark, South Carolina, concluded with the Tigers narrowly missing a victory with a final score of 75-71 in favor of Stillman. 

In the first half of the game saw Voorhees University gaining an early lead with Rydarius Hill hitting a jumper to score the opening points. Despite Stillman's Brandon Howard tying the game with a three-pointer, Voorhees pushed ahead with consecutive scoring from Tim Smith and Darius Elkins. Voorhees's largest lead in the first period stretched to 9 points, bolstered by a strategic layup from Jaheim Hall. The first period ended with Voorhees leading 39-38, promising a tightly contested game.

The second period was characterized by a fierce battle for control between the two teams. While Voorhees and Stillman exchanged leads, Stillman finally pulled ahead, propelled by crucial free throws and defensive plays. By the end of the game, Stillman had managed to establish a 6-point lead, the largest they held during the match. The game concluded at 75-71 in favor of Stillman, with Dasean Sellers from Stillman delivering a standout performance of 29 points and 5 steals.

Despite the loss, Voorhees University showcased resilience with significant contributions from their players. Tim Smith led the team with 14 points, closely followed by Darius Elkins and Rydarius Hill who added 13 and 12 points respectively. The Tigers displayed strengths in fast breaks and contributions from the bench, although they struggled to maintain their lead in the final minutes.

Looking forward, the Tigers will host Rust College in their next HBCU Athletic Conference Game at the same venue. Voorhees University will be eyeing a comeback to improve their 2-10 overall and 1-2 conference record.

About Voorhees University:  Founded in 1897 by Elizabeth Evelyn Wright, Voorhees University is a private, coeducational institution affiliated with the Episcopal Church and the United Negro College Fund. Driven by a mission to cultivate well-rounded graduates who integrate intellect and faith, the university emphasizes lifelong learning, healthy living, societal betterment, and a strong belief in God. Voorhees University is accredited by the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges (SACSCOC) to award baccalaureate, master's, and doctoral degrees. More details are available at the Voorhees website (www.voorhees.edu). Questions about the accreditation of Voorhees University may be directed in writing to the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges at 1866 Southern Lane, Decatur, GA 30033-4097, by calling (404) 679-4500, or by using information available on SACSCOC's website (www.sacscoc.org)