Parker O'Leary | Echo
The men's basketball team prevailed through two overtimes to defeat Indiana Tech 80-76 on Saturday night.
In the first half, the Trojans came out slow, shooting only 25.9 percent from the field in the first 20 minutes which resulted in a 27-22 Warrior lead at the intermission.
In the second half, the Trojans found their offensive rhythm and shot an impressive 18-29 from the floor and 50% from behind the arch. However, the Warriors matched the Trojans' firepower and kept a lead throughout the majority of the second frame.
Taylor went on an 8-0 run over a three-minute span and put themselves up by two with 3:44 left in the game.
From there, the teams battled until a layup from senior Josh Riikonen tied the game with seconds remaining and forced an overtime period.
Neither team took control in the first overtime meaning that a second period of free basketball was needed to decide a winner.
In the second period, a three from senior Ben Raichel and a series of clutch free throws propelled the Trojans to victory.
Taylor was led by Riikonen's filled stat sheet with 20 points, 14 rebounds, four blocks and three steals; all were team-highs.
TU travels to Evangel in Springfield, Missouri to play this Friday, Nov. 15, at 7 pm.
Photography by Timothy P. Riethmiller
