COLUMBIA, S.C. — Lane College survived a wire-to-wire battle on Thursday night, edging Allen University 84–83 inside Adams Gymnasium to move to 2–1 in SIAC play.

In a game that featured nine ties and nine lead changes, the Dragons delivered clutch plays on both ends of the floor in the final minutes to secure their second straight conference victory.

Dawson, Bell, and Lewis Power Lane's Offense

Elijah Greer Dawson turned in a dominant all-around performance, finishing with 27 points, 7 rebounds, 5 assists, and 2 steals while going an impressive 10–11 at the free-throw line. His two made free throws with 1:13 left stretched Lane's lead to 84–81 and ultimately proved decisive.

Xavier Bell provided consistent scoring all night, totaling 21 points on 8–14 shooting, including three made threes and a pair of key buckets in the second half.

Elijah Lewis added 19 points, 3 steals, and 3 assists, repeatedly breaking down the Allen defense—highlighted by a go-ahead layup with 2:19 remaining that put Lane ahead 80–79.

Jaiden Lee chipped in 10 points, 7 rebounds, and 5 steals, including a crucial put-back and several defensive plays that helped Lane shift momentum after trailing by as many as seven.

Dragons Rally After Halftime

Down 38–36 at the break, Lane picked up its tempo and attacked the paint, outscoring Allen 48–40 inside and scoring 14 fast-break points. The Dragons shot 54% in the second half, overcoming Allen's efficient offensive performance led by Jordahn Johnson (19 points, 11 rebounds) and Ky'Den Mays (18 points).

Even after Allen regained the lead late—and cut the deficit to one on two free throws with :02 left—Lane secured the defensive rebound on the final miss and held on as time expired.

Crunch-Time Execution Makes the Difference

Lane closed the game on an 11–4 run, sparked by Dawson's aggressive drives, Bell's mid-range jumper with 1:52 left, and Lewis' fearless attacks at the rim.