Skip to navigation Skip to content Skip to footer

From deficit to OT to victory

From deficit to OT to victory

From a huge deficit to a win in overtime, the Cyclones proved they could handle all obstacles after their 78-71 victory over Illinois Valley Community College.

It was another game that took Moraine Valley until the second half to get things going. They were down by 16 at one point because of turnovers and stalling on offense. Meanwhile, the Eagles couldn't be stopped from the three-point line, stretching their lead. Before the halftime buzzer, Nathan Purcell sunk a three to get the Cyclones within reach. They had only scored 22 points to the Eagles' 35.

It took four minutes into the second half before the Cyclones could cut the double digit deficit. A few scoring opportunities and free throws got them within four. It continued to stay close for the last 10 minutes of the game with the lead changing hands. With 25 seconds left in the game and tied at 64, Trevon Jones was fouled and injured, meaning Jace Lee had to take his free throws, banking both. However, the Eagles were able to tie it up as the buzzer went off to the end the game and send it into overtime.

Tied at 66 with five minutes on the clock, the Cyclones forced turnovers and earned several free throws while the Eagles lost their scoring mojo. The Cyclones were fouled five times within those five minutes, scoring eight points alone, the key to winning this matchup.

Isiah Burd led the offense with 18 points, going 8-for-10 from the free throw line. Trevon Jones banked 16 points and had five rebounds for the night. Anthony Taylor scored 13 while Nathan Purcell had 10 and had six rebounds. Trace Williams led with eight assists and tied Purcell with six boards.