Ramirez Scores 30 as Statesmen Open Season with Strong Home Win Over Flyers

SOUTH PRINCE GEORGE, VA — The Richard Bland College men's basketball team tipped off the 2025-26 season in winning fashion on Saturday night, defeating Sandhills Community College 94-87 inside Statesman Hall. The Statesmen showcased a balanced attack and dominant rebounding performance to hold off a late push from the visiting Flyers.

Sophomore Andy Ramirez powered the offense with a game-high 30 points, going 7-of-16 from the field and 16-of-20 from the free throw line. The veteran guard also added 12 rebounds for his first double-double of the season, 8 steals, and a block in a complete two-way performance.

Joining Ramirez in double figures, Aleksandar Bihler posted a strong 18-point, 10-rebound double-double, while Doyle Brown contributed 18 points and three steals, connecting on three triples. Dove Fishburne added 16 points, four rebounds, and six assists, while Jermaine Coston Jr. anchored the interior with 13 rebounds and a pair of blocks. Jahi Bowden posted six points, four assists, four steals, and two rebounds off the bench.

The Statesmen carried a narrow 36-31 lead into halftime before extending the margin to double digits midway through the second period. Key defensive stops and clutch free throws in the final minutes sealed the win and set the tone for the season.

As a team, the Statesmen shot 46.7% from the floor and outrebounded Sandhills 42-34, including 15 offensive boards that helped generate 94 total points. Richard Bland's aggressiveness at the rim led to 51 free throw attempts, with 35 makes proving crucial down the stretch.

Richard Bland (1-0) will look to build on the momentum as the team next travels to Harford Community College on Thursday, November 6^th for a 6pm contest.

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