Evangel saw a double-digit second half lead get away, ended up trailing by three with 15 seconds left in regulation but forced overtime and won 88-83 over Graceland Saturday at the Ashcroft Center.
CLICK HERE FOR PHOTOS OF THE GAME
Evangel guard Emily Atkins hit two free throws with nine seconds left in regulation forcing overtime tying the score at 74. Moments earlier Evangel had led 63-52 with seven minutes remaining but six three-point baskets from Graceland late in the game brought the Yellowjackets back and they had a 74-71 lead with 15 seconds remaining.
A Jessica Rumfelt free throw with 11 seconds left got the Crusaders within two. Akins then rebounded a missed free throw from Graceland and was tripped with nine seconds left leading to the tying foul shots. Graceland’s Jarica Smith’s 24-foot shot at the buzzer of regulation went short sending the game to overtime.
Evangel outscored Graceland 14-9 in the overtime.
Evangel’s Sierra McSpadden matched a career high with 29 points and added 9 rebounds while Amanda Landolt eclipsed her career high with 22 points. Tiaunshe Brown also scored 5 of her 11 points in the overtime for the Crusaders.
Smith had 23 to lead to the Yellowjackets who fell to 2-11 and 0-5 in the Heart of America conference.
The win improves Evangel’s record to 4-6 and 3-1 in the conference. The 88 points for the Crusaders in the game was a season high and well ahead of their previous season mark of 63.
Evangel plays at home again Thursday as they take on Avila in a conference game. Tipoff is at 5:30 p.m. at the Ashcroft Center.
E-Mail
Print
