Daniel Coursey scores 20 points as Mercer overcomes early deficit to upset Alabama 66-59

TUSCALOOSA, Ala. – Jakob Gollen made two free throws with 1:19 left and Mercer overcame a double-digit, first-half deficit to upset Alabama 66-59 on Saturday.

Daniel Coursey scored 20 points and Travis Smith had 17 for the Bears (7-6), who entered the game without a player averaging double-figures in scoring. Gollen and Langston Hall also had 10 points apiece.

Mercer trailed by 12 points with 3:30 left in the first half. But after halftime, the Bears outscored Alabama 44-32.

Alabama took a 59-58 lead when Levi Randolph made a jumper with 1:37 left in the game. But Mercer held the Crimson Tide scoreless for the rest of the contest, and Gollen's two free throws put the Bears ahead for good.

Trevor Releford scored 19 points on 6 of 14 shooting for the Crimson Tide (7-4), who have lost four of their last five games. Rodney Cooper 17 points and seven assists.