Panola men defeat nationally ranked Tyler Junior College in overtime, 82-78

 

 

Tyler, Texas – The Panola College men’s basketball team defeated 15th

ranked Tyler Junior College here Wednesday evening in overtime, 82-78. The

victory propels their record to 20-7 and 12-4 in Region 14 play. The win

gives the Ponies seven straight victories. “Our guys did a tremendous job

responding to adversity all game long.” Head Coach Grant McMillan

mentioned. “New people step up for us on a nightly basis. We talk about it

every day.” He added.

 

 

After a back and fourth start, Panola took a five point lead in the middle

of the first half but could not distance themselves any farther. Tyler

found some momentum and took a 36-30 halftime lead. Tyler gradually

increased their lead in the second half and found themselves up by 11

points 55-44 with 11:37 remaining. Panola went on a 22-2 run the next seven

minutes of the game giving them a nine point lead, 66-57. Panola struggled

to catch a break the remaining minutes as Tyler chased down a long rebound

and converted on the other end to tie the ball game at 68. Panola got a

shot off as time expired but the attempt was unsuccessful.

 

 

Panola controlled overtime from the tip as they scored the first five

points of the extra frame. Tyler cut the Panola lead to three, 79-76 but

clutch free throw shooting ultimately game the Ponies the victory.

 

 

Leading the way offensively for Panola was Marlon Taylor who netted a

career high 28 points and chased down 15 rebounds. Tope Arikawe scored 16

points in the victory and TJ Killings came off the bench to score 12. Eric

McGill recorded 10 assists. As a team Panola recorded 51 rebounds and only

committed 10 turnovers.

 

 

Panola continues Region 14 play this upcoming Saturday when the host

Kilgore College. Tip off is set for 4:00 PM on the campus of Panola

College.