Drovers Fall in Overtime at Northern New Mexico Despite Three Double-Double Performances

ESPANOLA, N.M. – Thursday night, the University of Science and Arts of Oklahoma (5-8, 1-6 SAC) was dealt a tough 104-100 overtime-loss on the road at Northern New Mexico College (3-7, 0-0 CALPAC). 

The Drovers briefly trailed in the opening minutes of the game, but quickly responded with a 7-0 run, prior to holding a 21-19 advantage midway through the half. Late in the half, the Eagles reclaimed the lead until Mohand Ammad hit a three at the buzzer to give the Drovers a 46-45 lead after 20 minutes of play.

Following the break, the Eagles opened the half on an 11-2 run to hold an eight-point lead with 17 minutes to play in regulation. With 10 minutes to play, NNMC controlled a 71-66 lead, but USAO used a 7-2 run to pull the score even at 73-73 with eight minutes left on the clock. The teams traded baskets down the stretch, and it was tied at 91-91 at the end of regulation.

In overtime, the Eagles outscored the Drovers 13-9 to claim the win. 

At the conclusion of the contest, USAO's offense shot 33-83 (.398) from the field, 10-28 (.357) from beyond the arc, and only 24-32 (.750) from the free-throw line. In comparison, NNMC shot 34-82 (.415) from the field, 13-40 (.325) from deep, and 23-37 (.622) from the charity stripe. 

The Drovers scored 46 points in the paint and hauled in 67 rebounds. In comparison, the Eagles scored 38 points in the paint and grabbed 42 rebounds. 

USAO committed 18 turnovers, which led to 29 points for NNMC. Meanwhile, the Eagles fumbled the ball only six times, resulting in 11 points for the Drovers.

USAO was whistled for 27 fouls, while NNMC was called for 24 violations.

USAO's offense was led by six double digit scoring performances, as well as a trio of double-doubles from Jamouri McCalister, Steve Tatsiguia, and Roman Lutton. McCalister contributed 19 points, 16 rebounds, and a pair of steals. Tatsiguia concluded with 14 points and 14 rebounds, while Roman Lutton closed with 12 points, 12 rebounds, and five assists.

Mohand Ammad added 19 points and five rebounds, followed by Elijah Burney with 15 points and two steals, as well as Lendy Holmes with 12 points and five rebounds. 

Chris Yapo produced four points and nine rebounds off the bench. Bryce Cowns scored three points, trailed by Avaun Garcia with two points. 

WHAT'S NEXT?

The Drovers will now head travel to the University of North Texas for an exhibition game on Monday, Dec. 22. Tip-off is slated for 1:00 PM CT in Denton, Texas.

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