PILOTS USE OVERTIME PUSH TO DOWN KANSAS WESLEYAN COYOTES

Salina, Kansas-- The Pilots of LSU Shreveport defeated the Coyotes of Kansas Wesleyan in an electrifying first round of the NAIA national tournament, 95-89 in overtime. With the win the Pilots move to an overall record of 23-8.

The Pilots found themselves down at the halftime break after a fierce opening half. The Coyotes jumped to an early ten point lead four minutes into the half, leading the Pilots 12-2. The Pilots soon began to claw their way back in bringing the score with in two points with five minutes remaining, 22-24. As the clock expired on the half the Pilots were again down by 10 going into the locker room, 28-38. 

The Pilots were 11-34 from the field with two three-pointers and 4-of-6 made free throws while the Coyotes were 14-31 from the field with two three-pointers and 8-of-15. 

Exiting the break the Pilots were determined to come back from the deficit. As the closing minutes drew near the Pilots were down by 11 with a need to score points. They made a six point run bringing the game within 5 and another to bring it within one. Trey Johnson tied the game 67-67 with a massive three with just over three minutes left in the game. The two teams continued to exchange baskets and with just seconds left the coyotes hit a three point bucket to tie the game 79-79 and send the game into over time. 

The Pilots, determined to see their season extended, took to the court in extra time, outscoring the coyotes 16-10 and advanced to the second round. 

Five pilots scored in the double digits; spear headed by Melvion Flanagan. Flanagan put up 19 points going 6-16 from the field with three three pointers and 4-of-4 on free throws. James Ellis and Calvin Carpenter each put up 14 points. Carpenter was 5-12 from the field and 4-4 from the free throw while Ellis was 6-8 from the field and 2-3 at the free throw. Tyler Washington and Trey Johnson each had 11 points. 

The Pilots will tip-off in the second round against the Bulldogs of Concordia. Tip-off is set for 6:00pm CT from Salina, Kansas.

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