FRANKLIN SPRINGS, Ga. - Men's basketball took on the University of Mount Olive Trojans on Saturday afternoon. The Lions defeated the Trojans in overtime, 93-91, moving their record to 13-9 overall and 10-4 in conference. 

The score remained close throughout the first 15 minutes of the game. But as the clock wound down towards halftime, the Trojans started heating up. The Trojan's 14-3 run in the last 3 minutes of the first half gave them an 8 point lead after 20 minutes, 41-33. 

The Trojans continued controlling the game into the second half, leading by as much as 14 and maintaining a double digit lead for much of the half. The Lions still trailed by 11 points with 6 minutes remaining. Emmanuel started applying more pressure to the Trojans, double teaming the ball handler and running a full court press. The aggressive defense resulted in several steals and baskets for the Lions, bringing them within 5 points of the lead. As the clock reached a minute to play, sophomore Michael Wright and freshman KJ Jones II both sank 3 pointers, tying the game 83-83 with 42 seconds left. Neither team was able to score, forcing the game to go into overtime. 

The Lions rode their momentum into overtime, gaining a 6 point lead in the first 2 minutes of the 5 minute period. The Trojans pulled within two points and had possession with 19 seconds remaining. However, the Lion's lockdown defense prevented the Trojans from scoring, giving Emmanuel the 2 point overtime victory, 93-91. 

The Lions were led by junior Brandon Simpson with 23 points. KJ Jones II followed with 18. 

Both teams were impressive from beyond the arc, each shooting 50% from three point territory. Michael Wright went 4/5 himself, contributing more than a third of Emmanuel's 11 threes. 

Next up, men's basketball will take on Southern Wesleyan University at home on Wednesday, February 5th. 

For more on Emmanuel College athletics, visit goeclions.com.