Colonels’ Thrilling Comeback Victory Sets Stage for Pivotal Road Test
The Eastern Kentucky University men’s basketball team is riding high after a stunning 100-88 win over Stetson on Saturday at Baptist Health Arena. This thriller was marked by a 12-0 run in the final three minutes, which propelled the Colonels to a crucial ASUN conference victory. As EKU prepares to face Lipscomb on the road, the team’s momentum and resilience will be put to the test.
Breaking Down the Stunning Turnaround
The game was a back-and-forth affair, with both teams trading baskets and neither able to gain a decisive advantage. However, when Stetson’s Daniel Macgregor hit a jumper to bring the Hatters within two points (88-86) with 2:53 remaining, it seemed like the visitors might pull off the upset. Instead, the Colonels unleashed a fury of free throws and clutch plays that left Stetson reeling. Juan Cranford Jr.’s three-made free throws after being fouled on a 3-point attempt gave EKU a 91-86 cushion, and from there, the Colonels never looked back.
Stars Shine Bright for EKU
Several Colonels players had career nights to remember. Cranford, a sophomore, poured in a career-high 23 points on 8-of-11 shooting, including 4-of-7 from behind the arc. MJ Williams also achieved a career-high 22 points, complemented by seven assists, three steals, and two rebounds. Montavious Myrick tied his career high with 19 points, adding six rebounds, two assists, and two blocks to his impressive stat line.
Team Effort Pays Off
The Colonels’ victory was not just about individual performances; it was a testament to the team’s collective grit and determination. EKU shot a scorching 54% from the field, went 22-for-26 (85%) at the free throw line, and outrebounded Stetson 34-30. While the Hatters had their moments, including a strong showing from Ethan Copeland (23 points), the Colonels’ balanced attack and clutch gene ultimately proved too much to handle.
First-Half fireworks
The opening period was a back-and-forth thriller, with both teams trading baskets and neither able to gain a decisive advantage. Stetson hit 5-of-7 from 3-point range to start the game, but EKU battled back, taking a 41-39 lead on Jayden Harris’ layup with 3:44 to go in the first half. The Colonels and Hatters played to a 48-48 tie at the break, setting the stage for a second-half showdown.
Looking Ahead to Lipscomb
As the Colonels prepare to face Lipscomb on the road, they’ll look to carry their momentum and confidence into Nashville. With a pivotal conference matchup on the horizon, EKU will need to draw on the same resilience and clutch gene that propelled them to victory over Stetson. The game, scheduled to begin at 8 p.m. ET on Wednesday, promises to be an electric affair, with the Colonels seeking to build on their winning momentum and make a statement in the ASUN conference.
