WALTERBORO, S.C. –  The USC Salkehatchie men's basketball team defeated nationally ranked Caldwell Tech on Saturday afternoon, 81-54. Caldwell entered the game with a 21-game winning streak and ranked 18th in the country in the latest NJCAA Division I poll. South Carolina State Representative Robby Robbins served as the honorary coach of the game in front of a packed "Salk Palace" and helped lead the team to victory. The S.C. National Guard, first responders and the Colleton County NJROTC were also recognized during the game.
In the first half, USC Salkehatchie started hot with a 23-1 run. As the half progressed, Salkehatchie was able to maintain control, taking a 13-point lead into halftime, 43-30.
The second half was all Salkehatchie as the 14 freshmen extended their lead with strong play on both ends of the court and holding Caldwell to just 24 second-half points.
Caldwell entered the game leading Region 10 in scoring at 93 points per game. Salkehatchie was able to hold them to just 54 total points, a season low. Salk continues to lead Region 10 in defensive field goal percentage, holding teams to under 42% from the floor.
With tonight's victory, Salkehatchie secured the 7th seed in the Region 10 tournament which begins on Thursday, March 14.
Salkehatchie will return to action this Wednesday, March 6 at home as they welcome local South Carolina rival Denmark Tech. The game will tip at 7 p.m. Be sure to follow @USCSalkMBB on Facebook, X, and Instagram for updates and livestream information.