Men's Basketball Overcomes CIU in Overtime for First AAC Win

COLUMBIA, S.C.- The men's basketball team pulled off a dramatic overtime victory on Saturday. TWU defeated the Columbia International University Rams 84-82 for their first Appalachian Athletic Conference (AAC) win of the season. 

TWU began the game trading baskets with CIU, led by Amauri Young, who opened the scoring for the Bulldogs with a layup and a converted free throw to cut an early deficit to 4-3. Peyton West added a three-pointer to keep TWU within reach, but CIU managed to build a slight advantage. Kariden Hardrick provided defensive stops and a timely free throw, while Young and Jay Reed contributed key rebounds to slow CIU's offense. Despite a valiant effort, TWU trailed 41-35 at halftime.

TWU came out strong in the second half, fueled by Young's offensive brilliance. His steals and fast-break layups, combined with West's sharp shooting from beyond the arc, quickly closed the gap. Ty Hurst added a critical jump shot to tie the game at 44. Armando Cuardado dominated the paint with multiple rebounds and a key tip-in that gave TWU the lead. The Bulldogs' defense clamped down, forcing turnovers and holding CIU to contested shots. By the end of regulation, the game was tied at 76, setting the stage for an electrifying overtime.

In overtime, TWU showed composure under pressure. West continued to lead offensively, hitting a pivotal jumper to put the Bulldogs ahead 78-77. Young followed with a steal and a jump shot to extend the lead. With time winding down, Young's crucial free throws pushed TWU ahead 82-81. A defensive rebound by West in the final seconds sealed the victory for the Bulldogs.

West scored a career-high 28 points, including six three-pointers, while Young added a career-high 25 points.

Tennessee Wesleyan (2-2, 1-1 AAC) will play their first home game of the regular season on Wednesday against Johnson University. The AAC game is set to begin at 7:30 p.m.