Grambling State found its rhythm at just the right time Friday night, turning a tight first half into a statement win.
Behind a career night from Antonio Munoz and a near-flawless shooting display by Jamil Muttilib, the Tigers powered past Hampton 81–72 at the HBCU Chris Paul Classic.
For much of the opening period, the game felt like a tug-of-war. Hampton controlled the tempo early, forcing Grambling to adjust on the fly. But once Munoz began attacking inside and Muttilib started carving up the defense, the Tigers found their groove. By halftime, Grambling had clawed ahead 38–33 — a small cushion, but the momentum had clearly shifted.
Tigers deep roster contributed to win
Grambling erupted after the break, shooting nearly 67% in the second half and turning each defensive stop into a chance to run. Munoz’s power in the paint and Muttilib’s smooth touch fueled a blistering offensive rhythm.
Bench standouts Derrius Ward and Jimel Lane added a burst of energy, with Ward’s transition three-pointer and Lane’s hustle plays helping push the Tigers’ lead into double digits.
Hampton made its push behind Jalyke Gaines-Wyatt, who poured in 22 points, and Xzavier Long’s double-double effort. But every time the Pirates trimmed the deficit, Grambling answered — whether through a Munoz and-one drive, a Muttilib jumper, or a timely defensive stop that reignited the fast break. By the closing minutes, the Tigers’ control was complete.
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Munoz finished with a career-high 23 points, five rebounds, four assists, and two blocks while dominating from the free-throw line. Muttilib was perfect from the floor, scoring 19 points on 7-of-7 shooting. Ward chipped in 12 points, and Lane added nine points and five boards off the bench.
Grambling shot 57.4% overall and outscored Hampton 44–28 in the paint. The Tigers also forced 15 turnovers, converting those into 24 points — a key difference in the game’s flow and pace.
With the victory, Grambling completed an undefeated run in the Chris Paul HBCU Tip-Off Classic, giving the Tigers a late-December surge of momentum.
