BELMONT, NC - The men's basketball team remained undefeated in conference play with a tough, double overtime win over the Belmont Abbey Crusaders. After regulation and one overtime couldn't settle it, the Lions were finally able to finish off the Crusaders after 50 minutes, 84-79. The win moves Emmanuel to 7-2 overall while they stay perfect in Conference play at 6-0.
The game was a hard fought one from tip-off as the teams battled each other on defense. A low scoring first half finish with the Crusaders narrowly leading, 29-28.
The second half continued to be a struggle, but Belmont Abbey slowly claimed the momentum. They led by as much as ten points with just over eight minutes left, 56-46. The Lions cut the deficit to six by the four minute mark, before a quick rally got them back within a point, 61-62. Seven points in just a minute and a half from senior Brandon Simpson were crucial in the rally. With the Crusaders leading 67-65 around the two minute mark, the Lions struggled to score, but forced back-to-back turnovers on defense to continue giving themselves chances. A steal and layup for senior Tyonn Stuckey tied the game at 67 with just 19 seconds left. A travel for the Crusaders was costly as the Lions got the ball back with three seconds left. A last ditch effort wasn't enough to score, sending the game into overtime.
Freshman Chris Dees came up clutch for Emmanuel in the first overtime period, splashing a pair of threes from deep. The second of which came with just over a minute remaining and tied the score at 75. Neither team was able to score despite both having chances. A block from Stuckey was huge in shutting down the Crusaders offense, sending the game into a second overtime period.
Dees continued to shine as the game wore on, knocking down a three when the score was tied at 79, giving the Lions the lead at the two minute mark. Gritty defense finally finished off the night for the Lions as they didn't allow the Crusaders to score again. Dees secured the game for the Lions by going 2-2 from the free throw line with 13 seconds on the clock. The Lions walked away with a five point victory, 84-79.
Brandon Simpson led the way for the Lions, putting up 23 points and grabbing 8 boards. Chris Dees scored 16 points off the bench, a career high performance for the freshman. Tyonn Stuckey followed with 14 points while forcing 5 turnovers.
Next up, men's basketball will host Belmont Abbey on Wednesday, December 15 at 4:00pm.
For more on Emmanuel College athletics, visit goeclions.com.
