Wildcats Fall in Overtime to No.2 Thomas More

MCKENZIE, Tenn. –In a game that featured 18 ties and 18 lead changes, the Bethel Wildcats lost an overtime heartbreaker to No. 2 Thomas More Saturday afternoon in Crisp Arena. The Saints outscored the Cats 11-8 in the overtime to win 84-81. The teams finished regulation tied at 73 all.

The Wildcats dropped to 8-6 overall and 4-5 in the MSC. TMU snapped a two-game losing streak and moved to 10-2 and 7-2.

Bethel shot 54 percent from the floor but struggled from the free throw line hitting just 16-of-32 attempts from the line. Bethel had a 54-28 margin in points in the paint and a 40- 14 advantage in points of the bench.

TMU shot 46 percent and finished with seven made three-pointers. The Saints hit 17-of-27 free throw attempts.

Bethel placed five players in double figures. Joe Nazario led the Cats with 15 points and eight rebounds. A J Burnett came off the bench with 14 points. Conner Guthrie finished with 13 tallies. Latrell Carter was solid with 12 points and six boards. Querrion Gadson scored ten points.

TMU had four players finish in double digits. Reid Jolly had a game high 31 points for the Saints.

Coach Jeff Britt commented, "This was a tough loss but I am really proud of how our guys competed against a very talented team. We had our chances, but our free throw shooting really hurt us." Britt added, "We wish our fans and supporters a Merry Christmas and Happy New Year and thank them for their great support."

The Wildcats are off until January fifth when they travel to No. 15 Georgetown.