BY TRISTAN SASSE
Regulation wasn’t enough, as the Fort Hays State University men’s basketball team went to double overtime against the Northeastern State RiverHawks. After the majority of the game was close, FHSU was able to pull away in double overtime for a 98-89 victory. Prior to Thursday, the Tigers were 0-3 in overtime games on the season. It was also Fort Hays’ first true road win since December 9 against Emporia State.
FHSU led for the entire first half, but the RiverHawks came storming back in the second half with strong three-point shooting. When it was all said and done, a strong burst by the Tigers helped them escape Tahlequah, Oklahoma with a victory.
On the night, Fort Hays shot 44.4%, while Northeastern State finished at 41%. Each team made 13 three-pointers, but the Tigers dominated the rebounding battle, 58-32. On the other hand, FHSU finished with 15 turnovers, but only forced three RiverHawk turnovers.
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Hadley Gillum led Fort Hays with 35 points, 11 rebounds, and six assists. Marcus Cooper also had a monster game, scoring 20 points, having a game-high 17 rebounds, and adding five assists. Additionally, Brady Werth scored 14 points and had nine rebounds. Aaron Nicholson also had 11 points and Kyler Kinnamon finished with seven points and five assists.
For the RiverHawks, Jamir Andrews finished with 24 points. Lucas Antunez and Tanner Mouse had 17 each, while Montre’ Williams followed with 14 points. Mouse also had six rebounds, while Josh Bougher, Gordon Hill, and Isaiah Bellamy finished with five rebounds each.
Up next, FHSU (14-9 overall, 7-7 in MIAA) will face off against Central Oklahoma (16-7, 9-5) in Edmond, Oklahoma. Meanwhile, Northeastern State (7-16, 3-11) will host Nebraska-Kearney (10-13, 6-8). Both games are scheduled to start at 3:30 PM.