MCKENZIE, Tenn. - The Bethel Wildcats loss their third straight falling in overtime to visiting Middle Georgia State Thursday night in Crisp Arena. The Knights won their fourth straight with a 97-94 victory.
Bethel dropped to 14-13 overall and 7-8 in SSAC play. MGS moved to 13-11 overall and 7-8 in the league.
It was the 6th meeting between the two programs. The series is tied at 3-3. Bethel is 1-1 in McKenzie and 2-2 in Cochran. Bethel beat the Knights in Cochran 86-74 on January 16.
The Wildcats appeared to have the game in hand with an 81-76 lead with under two minutes left in regulation. A couple of costly turnovers hurt the Wildcats and behind a driving lay-up by Darrell White MGS tied the game at 82. Bethel's attempt at the buzzer was to no avail and the teams went to overtime. The Knights outscored the Wildcats 15- 12 in the extra period to win.
The Wildcats were led by Cayden Edmonson who had a career high 27 points. The Clay, Kentucky native was 19-of-23 from the free throw line. Isaac Edmondson had 20 points while Chase Nappier had 14 points and six assists. Bradley Walker had 12 points.
Bethel was 26-of-37 from the free throw line. The Wildcats had a 39-31 rebound advantage in the game.
Bethel was 31-of-69 from the floor at 44 percent. The Knights were 34-of- 75 at 45 percent.
Bethel had 18 turnovers while MGS committed 15 on the night.
Roshaun Milline led the Knights with 25 points. He hit five three's in the game. White had 20 points. Middle Georgia hit 13 three-pointers in the game.
Coach Jeff Britt commented, "This is a tough one as we had an excellent chance to win. The late turnovers were huge and you cannot expect to win if you give up 13 three's. We fought hard but simply did not make the plays at the end to win."
The Wildcats remain at home facing Brewton-Parker Saturday at 3 p.m. Fans can catch the game on WEIO, 100.9 and at www.thefarmradio.com. Live video will be available with Wildcat Vision at www.bethelathletics.com.
