OKLAHOMA CITY, Okla. (Feb. 25, 2010) – The Oklahoma Christian men's basketball team held on in the last seconds against John Brown University to win 71-70 in the Eagles' Nest on Thursday night.
Both teams met their match on Thursday night as the Eagles and Golden Eagles fought through a neck-and-neck struggle on the hardwood.
The Eagles had trouble finding their rhythm during the first half as JBU broke away to a 15-point lead at 20-5 with outside shooting help from Coleson Rakestraw and 12:53 showing on the clock.
After an exchange of three-point baskets, the Eagles stormed back into the game with a 19-2 run to take a two-point lead with 5:37 left in the period. The Golden Eagles finally responded late in the half to keep the OC men on their feet.
With 5:00 remaining, the Eagles led by three at 30-27 before JBU went 9-0 to take a six-point lead with 2:31 showing. The Eagles were able to tie the game back up 39-39 before a last second foul gave the Golden Eagles a two-point lead heading into halftime.
The second half remained a close battle with four ties and seven lead changes occurring and neither team led by more than four points.
With 4:02 on the clock, the game sat tied at 66-66. Less than a minute later, Jeff Crocker drained a three to give the Eagles lead they would not surrender. Despite scoring retaliating baskets, the Eagles were able to hold off the Golden Eagles till the end.
The Eagles utilized a strong defense to maintain their 71-70 lead for the last 46 seconds of the game and add a needed conference win to their total.
Taylor continued to pace the Eagles with a 16-point performance along with making eight rebounds and five assists. Chad Endres totaled 15 points of his own in addition making six rebounds for the night.
Perimeter duo, Jeff Crocker and David Jackson, scored 13 and 14 points, respectively. Jackson made an impressive five steals during the game while Crocker passed out seven assists to keep the OC men moving.
The victory leaves the OC men with a 22-7 overall record and at 14-7 for the conference.
The Eagles will join the women's team on the road at Rogers State University on Saturday in the last games of the regular season. The No. 25 Eagles will tip off at 8 p.m. following the women's game at 6 p.m.
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