LA GRANDE, Ore. – Sophomore Jordan May hit a game-winning three pointer as time expired, leading the Eastern Oregon men's basketball team back from an 18-point deficit, defeating Warner Pacific 77-74 on Friday night at Quinn Coliseum in Cascade Collegiate Conference play.
The Mountaineers (14-12, 9-6 CCC) were looking to win out the regular season to earn a top-seed, and opened the final four-game stretch with a great start. The game featured numerous long runs by both teams, including an incredible 17-0 run to start the game for the Mountaineers. Redshirt freshman Kobi Gardea led the way in the first half with eight points, junior Jarek Schetzle contributed as well with seven points and six rebounds in the first 20 minutes.
After the Mounties' scorching hot start, Warner Pacific answered with a 21-4 run, blowing the game wide open. Going into the second half, Warner Pacific stayed consistent, forcing EOU into an 18-point deficit, but the Mountaineers were resilient.
In the second half, junior Brock Johnson led the Mountaineers by hitting two big threes to put EOU within seven points at 53-46. EOU continued to hustle and did not give up. With 5:30 left in the game, May took over by hitting back-to-back buckets, giving EOU the boost they needed.
With three minutes to play, senior Said Hersi hit a clutch three to help the Mountaineers take the lead. May showed his value by putting up 19 points, 13 rebounds, and four assists. Schetzle followed with 19 of his own with 8 rebounds.
The final minute of the game was one for the books. EOU and Warner Pacific were trading baskets back-and-forth. After the Knights tied the game 74-74 with 14 seconds left, May got the ball on the offensive end on a pass by Gardea at the top of the key, stepping up to hit the game-winning three, sending Warner Pacific out in defeat.
The Knights' Collin Malcolm led the team with 29 points and 11 rebounds. Khiry Williams had 13 points and Brandon Bell had 10 of his own.
The Mountaineers look to continue their thrilling performance against Multnomah on Saturday at 7:30 p.m. in Quinn Coliseum for Senior Night. Prior to the game, the team will honor seniors Peter Eke and Said Hersi, who are playing their final home regular season games.
For more information on Eastern Oregon men's basketball, follow @EOUAthletics or visit eousports.com.
FOLLOW EOU ATHLETICS
Facebook | Twitter | Instagram | YouTube
Contact: Iain Dexter; 541-962-3946; idexter@eou.edu