MCKENZIE, Tenn. –The Bethel Wildcats began a four game home stand with a hard fought 90-87 win over a talented Oakwood Ambassador team Tuesday night in Crisp Arena. Bethel moved to 11-7 on the season.
Bethel is 7 -3 at home this season and 97-29 all-time in Crisp Arena.
Cameron Ricks had 17 first half points and helped propel the Wildcats to a 49-27 halftime lead. Oakwood made a second half run and tied the game at 85 all with minutes left. Clutch free throw shooting by Javonte Ellis and Noah Chatman in the final seconds saved the day. The two combined for five free throws in the waning seconds to preserve the victory.
Ricks finished with a team high 23 points. Ellis (15) and Cayden Edmonson (16) both finished in double digits. Talik Talton led the Ambassadors with a game high 25 points. Bethel played without starter Jarred Walker, out due to and injury and Myron McKinney out due to sickness.
Bethel's ability to get to the foul line was a big factor as the Wildcats were 26-of-39 from the line.
Bethel had a 25-5 margin in second chance points. Bethel had 26-7 advantage in offensive rebounds. The Wildcats entered the game 2nd in the nation in offensive rebounds per game at 15.2. Oakwood had a 56-45 advantage in points in the paint.
Coach Jeff Britt stated, "We have to learn to compete for the full forty minutes and not let up. We were fortunate to hold on and win."
The Wildcats are back in action Saturday hosting Brewton-Parker at 2 p.m.
Catch the action on WEIO, 100.9 and at www.thefarmradio.com. The Countdown to Tip-off Show begins immediately following the women's game.
Live radio:
https://www.thefarmradio.com/
Live video:
http://www.bethelathletics.com/WildcatVision
Live stats:
http://www.dakstats.com/Websync/Pages/Webcasts.aspx?association=10
