East Tennessee State spent the first 20 minutes chasing. The second 20 turned into a statement.

Down 35-23 at the break, ETSU detonated for 38 points after halftime and held off Furman’s late push to secure a 75-71 win on Feb. 5, 2026. It was a swing game between teams that came in level at 16-7 — and it tilted on one decisive stretch coming out of the locker room.

The game in one swing: a 15-point second-half reversal

Furman controlled the opening half with a 12-point cushion, 35-23, dictating the early terms and putting ETSU in a position where shot-making alone wouldn’t be enough.

ETSU’s response was immediate and forceful. The Buccaneers outscored Furman 38-26 in the second half, turning a 12-point deficit into a four-point win. That 15-point swing after halftime was the difference — not a slow grind back, but a clear shift in control.

Halftime adjustments and execution

ETSU’s second-half scoring jump (23 points in the first half to 38 in the second) reflected more than a hot stretch; it signaled improved execution and pace. The Buccaneers found enough offense to change the game’s geometry, forcing Furman to play from behind after spending the first half in command.

On the other side, Furman couldn’t match that gear change. After putting up 35 before intermission, the Paladins managed 26 in the second half, and that drop-off proved costly in a one-possession finish.

Closing time: ETSU survives the final minutes

The finish tightened, but ETSU’s second-half work gave it the margin it needed. Furman’s 71 points were enough to keep pressure on the Buccaneers deep into the game, yet ETSU’s ability to win the second half by 12 allowed it to absorb late volatility and still come out on top, 75-71.

What it means going forward

For ETSU, the win reinforces a trend line: the Buccaneers entered in solid form (WLWWW) and added another result that reflects resilience and in-game adaptability. For Furman, which came in at 16-7 as well, the loss continues a wobble in recent form (WWWLL) — and underscores how quickly a strong first half can be erased when the second-half margin swings decisively.

Game details

League: NCAA
Season: 2025-2026
Date: February 5, 2026
Venue: TBD
Final: East Tennessee State 75, Furman 71
Halftime: Furman 35, East Tennessee State 23
Second half: East Tennessee State 38, Furman 26