FAYETTEVILLE, N.C. — Livingstone College put together a furious second‑half surge, scoring 70 points after halftime, but the rally came up just short as the Blue Bears fell to Fayetteville State, 96–92, on Thursday evening inside Capel Arena.

After trailing 44–22 at the break, Livingstone caught fire offensively, shooting 61.4% from the field in the second half. Bench production was a major spark, contributing 54 total points, led by a breakout performance from Jemez Herd Jr., who poured in 17 points on 8‑for‑9 shooting.

Jacob Hukins Jr. added 15 points, knocking down three triples, while Jeremiah Mobley chipped in 14 points, going a perfect 6–for‑6 from the free‑throw line.

Despite the strong comeback effort, Fayetteville State's balanced scoring and efficiency at the line (30–for‑36 FT) proved decisive. The Broncos were led by Ezekiel Cannedy's 21 points, while Larry Howell and Darius Boben each posted 20.

Livingstone finished the night shooting 49.3% from the floor and dominated the paint with 52 points, but the early deficit proved too much to overcome.

The Blue Bears will be back at home on Valentine's Day — Saturday, Feb. 14 — as they host Claflin University in a doubleheader. The women tip off at 2 PM, followed by the men at 4 PM.