ODU Monarchs Hold Off Arkansas State in Close Sun Belt Matchup

Jordan Battle's 20 points and Cal Swanton-Rodger's double-double lead Monarchs to 75-71 road win

Jan. 28, 2026 at 10:23pm

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The Old Dominion Monarchs men's basketball team defeated the Arkansas State Red Wolves 75-71 in a close Sun Belt Conference matchup on Wednesday night in Jonesboro, Arkansas. Jordan Battle scored 20 points and dished out 6 assists, while Cal Swanton-Rodger added 13 points and 9 rebounds to help the Monarchs pick up their third road win of the season and improve their record to 7-15 overall and 4-6 in Sun Belt play.

Why it matters

Close games have been a theme for the Monarchs throughout their Sun Belt season so far, and this victory over Arkansas State continues that trend. The win keeps Old Dominion in the hunt in the competitive Sun Belt Conference standings, as they are now just a half-game behind their next opponent, Texas State.

The details

In addition to Battle and Swanton-Rodger's strong performances, KC Shaw scored 16 points and LJ Thomas chipped in 11 for the Monarchs. The game was tight throughout, with Old Dominion holding off a late charge by Arkansas State to secure the 75-71 victory.

  • The game took place on Wednesday night in Jonesboro, Arkansas.
  • Old Dominion's next game has been moved up to a 2 p.m. ET tipoff on Saturday against Texas State in order to allow the team to return to Norfolk ahead of potential winter weather.

The players

Jordan Battle

A key player for the Old Dominion Monarchs, scoring 20 points and dishing out 6 assists in the win over Arkansas State.

Cal Swanton-Rodger

Contributed a double-double of 13 points and 9 rebounds to help the Monarchs defeat the Red Wolves.

KC Shaw

Scored 16 points for Old Dominion in the close victory.

LJ Thomas

Chipped in 11 points for the Monarchs in the Sun Belt Conference matchup.

Cooper Jones

A Monarchs player who, while not seeing much playing time, is still an important contributor to the team in other ways.

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What’s next

The Monarchs will look to build on this road victory when they travel to face Texas State on Saturday. The game has been moved up to a 2 p.m. ET tipoff to allow Old Dominion to return to Norfolk ahead of potential winter weather in the region.

The takeaway

Old Dominion's ability to grind out close wins on the road in the competitive Sun Belt Conference is a testament to the team's resilience and determination. As they continue to battle for positioning in the standings, these types of hard-fought victories could prove crucial down the stretch.