GEORGETOWN, Ky. - In a back-and-forth battle, Bethel University (Tenn.) edged out Midway 106-103 in an overtime thriller on Friday night. Both teams showcased explosive offense, but it was Bethel's ability to execute in crunch time that ultimately secured the win.
First Half: Midway got off to a hot start, shooting a blistering 53.1 percent from the field. Decoreio Smith led the way for Midway, scoring 13 points in the opening half, while teammates Amari Wales and Robbie Henry each contributed eight and seven points, respectively. Despite Midway's early dominance, Bethel kept the game close, relying heavily on Ethan Turner, who posted 13 points and eight rebounds in the first 20 minutes. Bethel trailed by just six at halftime, 49-43.
Second Half: The second half saw both teams continue to trade baskets at a rapid pace. Bethel found its rhythm, especially from the free-throw line, where it shot an impressive 78.3 percent (18-23) in the second period. Chauncey Hughes III was crucial, scoring 14 points in the half, while Turner added another nine. Midway's Smith and Wales responded with big plays of their own, with Smith finishing the half with 13 more points, pushing his total to 26 by the end of regulation. The game was tied at 91-91 at the end of the second half, forcing overtime.
Overtime: The overtime period was a nail-biter, as both teams continued to battle for the lead. Bethel capitalized on their free-throw shooting, going 8-for-9 in the extra frame. Hughes hit a clutch 3-pointer and made a critical layup, finishing with 24 points overall. Midway had chances to respond, but its shots in the final moments didn't fall. Despite solid performances from Smith (26 points) and Wales (16 points), Bethel's Turner and Hughes helped seal the victory with key late-game free throws.
Smith was the standout performer with 26 points,four rebounds, and six assists, while Amari Wales chipped in 16 points and four assists. Robbie Henry added 14 points, and Nick Keeton contributed 19 points off the bench on a perfect 8-for-8 shooting
The Eagles will have a quick turnaround as they hit the court again at 1 p.m. against Cumberland University (Tenn.)
