Texans Fall in Overtime Thriller at National Tournament

HUTCHINSON, KANSAS - South Plains College faced Northern Oklahoma College-Enid on March 22 in Hutchinson, Kansas, battling through a tightly contested game that ended regulation tied at 70 before the Texans ultimately fell 81-78 in overtime.

The game was competitive from start to finish, featuring six ties and 11 lead changes. South Plains built its largest lead of the night at eight points in the first half, but neither team was able to create separation as the contest wore on.

In a dramatic finish to regulation, Keith Richard delivered in the clutch. With just 0.7 seconds remaining, Richard was fouled at halfcourt and sent to the free throw line for three shots. After missing the first attempt, he calmly knocked down the next two to tie the game at 70 and force overtime.

In the extra period, Northern Oklahoma College-Enid was able to make just enough plays down the stretch to secure the 81-78 victory and advance.

Antallah Sandlin'el led the Texans with 19 points, eight rebounds and two assists. Deion Ware added 18 points, five rebounds and five assists, while Keith Richard finished with 16 points, six rebounds, five assists and four steals in an all-around performance.

South Plains shot 37.5 percent from the field, 43.3 percent from three-point range and 63 percent from the free throw line. The Texans grabbed 40 rebounds, dished out 15 assists and converted 19 points off turnovers. They also added 11 second chance points, 22 points in the paint and received 26 points from the bench.