Men’s Basketball Falls in Double Overtime Thriller to Buffalo, 91–89

Despite multiple late leads and forcing extra basketball, Bryant & Stratton (Ohio) came up just short in a hard-fought double-overtime battle, falling 91–89 to Bryant & Stratton (Buffalo) on Friday night at Ursuline College.

The Bobcats showed resilience all night after trailing 37–33 at halftime. Ohio responded with a strong second half, outscoring Buffalo 37–33 to force overtime. Both teams traded baskets in the first extra period, tied at 82, before Buffalo edged ahead in the second overtime to escape with the win.

Bryant & Stratton (Ohio) was led by Tareeq Roper, who delivered a standout performance with 24 points on 8-of-14 shooting, knocking down three triples and playing 45 minutes. Phillip Byrd added a double-double with 16 points and 12 rebounds, while Greg Thurman chipped in 14 points, including two key three-pointers.

Inside, Ohio controlled the glass, outrebounding Buffalo 53–52, with Byrd and Adeboye Akinode combining for 22 boards. Defensively, the Bobcats forced 17 turnovers and recorded six blocks, keeping constant pressure throughout the 50-minute contest.

Buffalo was paced by TaRon Benton's 28 points, but Ohio's effort, toughness, and execution kept the game within one possession until the final seconds of double overtime.

The Bobcats will look to build off the performance and close out tight games as conference play continues.

The Bobcats will look to bounce back and turn the page quickly as they return to action Sunday, December 21st, on the road against Villa Maria.
Tip-off is set for 2:00 PM EST.

-Ray Yates