The Basics
Score: MNU 78 - Missouri Valley 74
Record: MNU (16-6, 13-4), MVC (12-11, 8-9)
Location: Burns Athletic Complex - Marshall, Mo.
MARSHALL, Mo. – The Pioneers overcame a last-second game-tying 3-pointer to beat Missouri Valley 78-74 in overtime on Wednesday. MNU controlled the first quarter and took a 7-point lead into halftime, but Valley came out strong in the 3rd to take a 2-point lead into the 4th. The 4th period was tight, and MNU used late free throws to take a 3-point lead with 20 seconds left. Valley missed a 3-pointer but got the rebound in a mad scramble. Another 3 rimmed off, but another offense rebound resulted in one final attempt at the buzzer. This time the shot was true, and the game went into overtime.
TrEl'Shawn Smith got overtime started with a 3-pointer, and 4 straight free throws put MNU up by 7 after 2 minutes of play. But Valley chipped away and tied the game at 74 with 30 seconds remaining. Smith collected an offensive rebound after a missed 3 and scored for a 76-74 lead, and Valley missed a shot with under 10 seconds left. Smith hit 2 more free throws to seal it, and the Pioneers escaped.
Turning Point
MNU scored 4 points in the final 30 seconds to get the win.
Inside the Box Score
TrEl'Shawn Smith scored 12 of MNU's 14 overtime points.
Individual Leaders
TrEl'Shawn Smith led the way for the Pioneers with 24 points, 7 rebounds, and 5 steals.
Jordynn Gonzalez had 14 points.
Vanda Cuamba added 14 points. And
Bi'Anna Pettis had 10 points, 7 rebounds, and 4 assists.
Up Next
The next game is Saturday at home vs. Peru State (8-15, 4-13) at 2:00.
