Benedictine Mesa closed strong in the final seconds to secure a thrilling
76–74 victory over OUAZ, overcoming an early deficit and surviving multiple late charges in a tightly contested men's basketball matchup.
First Half
OUAZ jumped out early, knocking down three triples in the opening minutes to build an 11–2 advantage. Benedictine Mesa settled in behind
Isaiah Howard,
Kamron Robinson, and
Damian Zivak, responding with key baskets in the paint and trips to the free-throw line.
After Benedictine Mesa took its first lead midway through the half, OUAZ answered with a four-point possession to regain momentum. The Redhawks stayed persistent on the offensive glass, creating second-chance opportunities that led to back-to-back three-pointers later in the half.
The teams traded baskets in the final two minutes, and Benedictine Mesa closed the half with strong interior play. OUAZ answered at the buzzer, tying the game
39–39 at halftime.
Second Half
Benedictine Mesa came out of the locker room with energy, opening the half with defensive pressure that led to transition baskets.
Robinson finished inside early, and the Redhawks built a five-point advantage with sustained interior scoring and free throws.
OUAZ responded with timely threes, repeatedly trimming the margin, but Benedictine Mesa answered each run.
Luis Marin and
Howard provided key baskets during a stretch that pushed the lead to eight midway through the half.
With under five minutes to play, OUAZ closed within one possession multiple times, fueled by offensive rebounds and three-point shooting. Benedictine Mesa remained composed, converting free throws and getting critical stops to maintain a narrow lead.
Final Moments
The closing seconds delivered high drama, as OUAZ tied the game at
74–74 with 27 seconds remaining. Out of a timeout, Benedictine Mesa executed to perfection, with
Isaiah Howard knocking down the decisive jumper with five seconds left.
OUAZ had one final look at a three, but the attempt missed, allowing Benedictine Mesa to secure the
76–74 win.
Key Players:
Looking Ahead: The Redhawks are back on the court on Thursday, January 22
nd as they take on Life Pacific on the road.
