Bluefield, WV- In a nail-biting CIAA matchup at Ned Shott Gymnasium, the Blue Bears secured a hard-fought 61–58 victory over Bluefield State on Saturday afternoon. The win improves Livingstone to 3-4 overall and 1-1 in conference play, while Bluefield State falls to 1-7, 0-1 CIAA.

The game was a battle from start to finish, featuring eight ties and five lead changes. Livingstone trailed by one at halftime (24–25) but surged in the second half behind clutch shooting and key defensive stops.

After shooting just 33% in the first half, the Blue Bears found their rhythm, hitting 56.5% from the field in the final 20 minutes. Livingstone's ability to convert at the free-throw line proved critical, going 17-of-23 (73.9%) overall.

Player Highlights

• James Nipper led the charge with a game-high 20 points, including a perfect 9-of-9 from the free-throw line and three steals.
• Omarion Bodrick dominated the boards, pulling down 7 rebounds to go with 9 points.
• Kenneth Tyree Jr. added 8 points, knocking down two key three-pointers and dishing out 3 assists.

Bluefield State was paced by Myles Pierre, who poured in 22 points and hit two triples. Anthony Latty controlled the glass with 10 rebounds, while Ellija Preddy chipped in 9 points and 7 steals, keeping the Big Blues within striking distance.

The Blue Bears continue their road swing on Monday, December 15, when they travel to Bowie, Md., to face Bowie State at 7:30 p.m.