Buffs win in overtime

Berea, Ky. (Nov. 17, 2007) --- The Milligan College men's basketball team (5-1) squeaked out a big win Saturday over the host team, Berea College, in overtime during the final leg of the Berea Classic. The final score for the contest was 76-74.

The first half was virtually a roller coaster with both teams trading baskets, until late in the half when Berea went up by 11 (32-21) with just under three minutes remaining in the half. A Milligan timeout would spark the Buffs to go on a 10-0 run to finish the half with a score of 32-31.

The second half followed the same fashion with both teams going back and forth. Nearing the end of regulation the Buffs were down two points, with only four seconds remaining. Sophomore Danny McKeehan (Morrow, Ohio) was fouled and sent to the line to shoot a pair of free throws. McKeehan missed the first and the Buffs called another timeout to draw up a game plan. After an intentional miss, McKeehan grabbed his own rebound and was fouled again. This time McKeehan netted both free throws to send the game into overtime.

In overtime the Buffs jumped out to an early five point lead, but Berea was able to tie the game up at 74. Berea held the ball in what they hoped to be a last second shot attempt. They pulled too early and McKeehan grabbed the missed attempt and was fouled yet again, but this time McKeehan was injured on the play. After a 60 second break, granted by the official for the injury, McKeehan stepped up to the foul line. With the game tied, McKeehan drained both free throws securing the victory for the Buffs.

McKeehan had a huge night for the Buffs with 23 points and eight rebounds. Junior Jeff Barnes (Franklin, Tenn.) tied McKeehan with 23 points and pulled down 10 rebounds. Junior point guard Tyler Estepp (Limestone, Tenn.) chipped in seven points, four rebounds, and had five assists while not having any turnovers in the ball game. Sophomore Derrick Nave (Elizabethton, Tenn.) added 10 points for the Buffs.

“Today was a hard fought win, and I am really proud with how the guys bounced back and played hard after a tough loss last night,” said Milligan College Head Coach Tony Wallingford. “The guys had good composure near the end of the game and into overtime.”

The Buffs host Crown College on Tuesday, Nov. 27; tip-off is scheduled for 7p.m.