ROME, Ga. (Interstat) — Braylen Smith scored 30 points, including the decisive layup with five seconds remaining, to lift the Georgia Highlands Chargers to a 78-74 comeback victory over the Gadsden State Cardinals in a back-and-forth men’s junior college basketball game Thursday night.

Smith, who played 29 minutes, added six rebounds, four assists and two blocks for the Chargers. His final basket capped a late surge for Georgia Highlands, which trailed by as many as 13 points in the first half and entered the final period down 74-70.

The game was a high-scoring affair from the outset, with Gadsden State taking a 74-71 lead after a quarter and a 74-78 advantage into halftime. The pace slowed considerably after the break, with both defenses tightening. Georgia Highlands outscored Gadsden State 41-36 in the second half to secure its first win of the season.

Julien Barnett led Gadsden State with a game-high 27 points and 10 rebounds. KeShawn Watkins added 22 points and 15 rebounds for a double-double, dominating the interior for the Cardinals. Nathan Henley Jr. provided a significant spark off the bench, scoring all 10 of his points in the second half.

Despite being outrebounded 45-30 and allowing 16 offensive boards, Georgia Highlands forced 11 turnovers and converted them into key transition opportunities. The Chargers also benefited from a more efficient night at the free-throw line down the stretch, making 18 of 23 attempts compared to Gadsden State’s 19 of 25.

Justen Goudelock and Joshua Bryant provided crucial support for Smith, each scoring 15 points for Georgia Highlands. Justin Rushin directed the offense with a team-high six assists.

The Cardinals controlled the glass and attempted more free throws but were hampered by poor shooting from beyond the arc, making just three of 15 attempts. Georgia Highlands was not much better from deep, hitting two of 12, but made critical baskets inside when it mattered most.

After a back-and-forth final few minutes, the score was tied at 74-74. Following a Gadsden State timeout, the Cardinals missed a driving layup, leading to a Georgia Highlands rebound and timeout with 28 seconds left. On the ensuing possession, Smith drove through the lane and finished with his left hand to put the Chargers ahead for good. He was fouled on the play but missed the free throw, leaving the door slightly ajar. Gadsden State’s last-second three-point attempt was off the mark as time expired.

With the win, Georgia Highlands evened its record at 1-2. Gadsden State fell to 1-2. The Chargers are scheduled to host Chattanooga State on Saturday. Gadsden State will host Copiah-Lincoln on Dec. 11.