Bobcats Edge Kent State Tusc in Thriller, 81–78

NEW PHILADELPHIA, Ohio — Bryant & Stratton (Ohio) picked up a hard-fought road victory Sunday afternoon, holding off Kent State Tusc for an 81–78 win.

The Bobcats and Golden Eagles were deadlocked at 41–41 at halftime after a tightly contested first half, and neither team led by more than a few possessions throughout the afternoon. Bryant & Stratton stayed poised down the stretch, executing on both ends late to secure the three-point road win.

Sam Whitaker III delivered a breakout performance off the bench, pouring in a game-high 27 points on an efficient 12-of-14 shooting, while also grabbing eight rebounds, sparking the Bobcats' offense when it mattered most. Greg Thurman added 15 points and hit three triples, while Detric Hearst contributed 13 points, four rebounds, and three assists in 37 minutes.

Bryant & Stratton controlled the glass, outrebounding Kent State Tusc 44–40, led by Phillip Byrd with 13 rebounds and eight points, along with two blocks. The Bobcats also recorded 10 blocked shots as a team, disrupting multiple Golden Eagle scoring chances inside.

Bryant & Stratton's interior presence and timely shot-making proved to be the difference.

The Bobcats improve their momentum with the road win as they continue navigating a tough stretch of their schedule.

Up Next

Bryant & Stratton (Ohio) continues its road stretch next weekend with back-to-back matchups:

• Saturday, December 13th at Bloomfield College — 2:00 PM EST

• Sunday, December 14th at Bryant & Stratton (Albany) — 4:00 PM EST

The Bobcats will look to build on Sunday's momentum as they prepare for two important road tests.

-Ray Yates