Jacksonville, IL—Principia Men's Basketball team played the second game of the Illinois College tournament against University of the Ozarks to determine the third place finish for the tournament. A hard fought battle by both teams resulted in a second straight overtime game for Principia and ultimately a 94-90 loss.
Principia started off the game a bit slow as they tried to get a hold of the game. Several early three pointers for Ozark gave them the early 5 point lead just 5 minutes into the game. For the next few minutes the Panthers had no trouble scoring the ball but still had trouble getting stops on the defensive end of the game. The game seemed to hang in balance with Ozark holding their 5 point lead for the majority of the half. Principia was able to cut into a 7 point deficit just before half to go into halftime down 38-34.
In the second half Principia came out with much higher energy and positive attitude, but unfortunately multiple turnovers early caused the lead to balloon to 10 points in just three minutes. The Panthers locked in defensively and went an offensive tear within a 3 minute time period, led by
TreVaughn Goodman. Tre was able to score 15 points in this three minute span consisting of two and one plays, a steal for a dunk and a three pointer. Prin continued this good play and turned their 10 point deficit into a 7 point lead in just 6 minutes of play.
Once again though the Panthers allowed the other team back in the game instead of closing the door with several poor turnovers and fouls. University of the Ozarks used some timely three point shooting to get them back in the game and tie it up at 73-73 with 5 minutes left in regulation. In a game of runs Ozark continued their good play and went up 5 points with just 2 minutes remaining. Good execution on offense resulted in a big three pointer by
Micah Paulson followed by a layup by
Jeff Ross tying the game up once again at 80-80. On the last possession of regulation Principia was fouled and had a two free throws to win the game with just 1 second remaining on the clock. Two consecutive misses forced a second OT game in the first two games of the season.
Overtime provided a seesaw affair with each team trading buckets. But down the stretch a turnover by the Panthers gave Ozarks a chance to ice the game at the free throw line, and ultimately the 94-90 victory.
Outstanding Performance
Micah Paulson and
TreVaughn Goodman both had sensational games as they combined for 70 percent of the teams scoring. Micah had 35 points on 11-17 shooting while TreVaughn had 30 points while shooting an amazing 13-15 from the field.
Up Next
Elsah, IL- Principia Panthers get a chance to bounce back from two tough OT games in a home opener versus an extremely tough opponent in Washington University at 7pm on Tuesday November 21.
