EDMOND, Okla. –  That’s one way to win your first road game of the season.

The Missouri Western men’s basketball team erased 19-point halftime deficit to defeat Central Oklahoma 88-84 in overtime on Saturday in Edmond, Oklahoma.

Cole Clearman scored all 25 of his points in the second half, going 7-10 from 3-point range.  Clearman set career highs for points and made three point field goals in the win. His hot-shooting sparked a 31-8 second half run that saw the Griffons take their first lead with 12:30 remaining in regulation.

The shot that sent it to overtime was one that will be remembered for a long time. With the Griffons trailing 76-73 with just over five seconds remaining, Aaron Emmanuel stepped to the free-throw line, but missed the front end of a one-and-one.  But Currie Byrd tipped the loose ball out to Miles Wentzien, and the freshman netted a three-pointer with three seconds remaining to force overtime. From there, the Griffons took control thanks to back-to-back shots from Byrd. The junior forward finished with 15 points.

Aaron Emmanuel also had 20 points, eight assists and six rebounds in the victory. Wentzien added 16 points.

The Griffons improve to 9-16 overall and 7-12 in The MIAA.

They will next travel to Maryville Saturday to take on Northwest Missouri.

— MWSU Athletics —