Red Hawks End In An OT Loss Against The Jets

The Lake Michigan College Red Hawks Men's Basketball team failed to hold on after extending their lead to as many as 15 over the Jackson Jets in a conference match-up Saturday afternoon. The Red Hawks were able to connect from the perimeter at a high rate throughout the day, but it was Jackson's pressure and offensive rebounding advantages that allowed them to break down the lead, force overtime, and eventually walk away with a six-point victory.

The Red Hawks took a 15 point lead late in the first half behind a strong half from their starters, who provided 40 of the 45 first half points. Solid defense was a key factor and the Red Hawks held the Jets to 36% from the field for the half to take a nine-point lead to the locker room.

Jackson continued to use full court pressure that had helped narrow the gap at the end of the first half to force the Red Hawks in to more mistakes in the second half. The pressure lead to 14 turnovers in the second half and overtime. That combined with a dominant offensive rebounding performance was critical in the Red Hawks struggles. The Jets collected 11 second half offensive rebounds in route to taking 22 more shot attempts than the Red Hawks in the period. The Red Hawks shooting could not overcome the onslaught from Jackson. At the end of the second half, the Red Hawks still had a chance to seal the game with a score on their final possession, but a missed three pointer forced overtime.

The Jets were able to control the overtime period as they found drives to the rim early and connected on free throws late to hold off the Red Hawks. The Red Hawks were unable to finish opportunities in the same way and Jackson walked away with an 85-79 victory.

The Red Hawks were lead by three sophomores on sophomore day, Khaire Williams had 20 points, 9 rebounds, and 5 assists, Sheddrick Porter also scored 20 and had 4 rebounds, and Austin Dukesherer connected on both attempts from 3 for 6 points and secured 9 rebounds. Jaguar Jackson and Justin Henderson also added 13 points each.

The Red Hawks will host Grand Rapids Community College on Wednesday, February 20, 2019 with a 7:30 pm tip. The Red Hawks will also support the Chad Tough Foundation with all proceeds made going towards childhood brain cancer research.