In a thrilling showdown, the Gorillas of Pittsburg State University staged a remarkable comeback to secure an overtime victory, finishing 70-67 against the Western Colorado University Mountaineers during the Fairfield Inn & Suites Holiday Classic held at Cameron University's Aggie Gymnasium on December 20.
The standout performer for the Gorillas (now boasting a 9-2 record) was Ja'Miya Brown, who delivered an impressive career-high scoring performance with 36 points. Her shooting statistics were exceptional: she hit 13 out of 22 field goal attempts, made 7 of 13 from beyond the arc, and successfully completed 3 of 4 free throws. Notably, Brown’s scoring and her three pointers rank fourth in the history of Pitt State's women's basketball. Additionally, Harper Schreiner contributed significantly with 23 points and eight rebounds, showcasing her skills by hitting 3 of 6 from three-point range and converting 8 of 9 free throw attempts. Collectively, the Gorillas made 11 three-pointers, capitalized on turnovers for 17 points, and secured 12 points from second-chance opportunities.
On the other hand, the Mountaineers (5-5) were led by Ivey Schmidt, who recorded 21 points and grabbed seven rebounds. Jayda Maves also played a crucial role, adding 20 points to the team's efforts. As a whole, Western Colorado exhibited strong shooting percentages, hitting 45.8% from the field and an impressive 53.3% from three-point range, while scoring 32 points in the paint.
The game was tightly contested, with both teams tied at 29-29 at halftime. Western Colorado managed to gain a slight edge, taking a 47-40 lead into the fourth quarter thanks to a near buzzer-beater three-pointer from Penel Urquhart. The Mountaineers further extended their advantage to 11 points (52-41) after a reviewed shot clock violation turned into a successful three-pointer by Micah Wicks with just under six minutes remaining in regulation.
Responding to the challenge, Pittsburg State launched a comeback led by two three-pointers from Brown and a fast-break play converted into an and-one opportunity by Schreiner, narrowing the gap to just two points at 52-50 with 2:28 left on the clock. With just 32 seconds remaining, Brown scored a second-chance layup, giving the Gorillas their first lead since late in the second quarter at 54-53. However, Maves answered back for WCU with a three-pointer, putting them back in front with 15 seconds to go. In a tense moment, Brown was fouled with only nine seconds left, and she calmly sank both free throws, pushing the game into overtime.
During the overtime period, the Gorillas surged ahead initially, but the Mountaineers quickly reclaimed a one-point lead (64-63) with just 47 seconds remaining. Schreiner then struck back for the Gorillas with a pivotal three-pointer that secured their lead for good. She followed up with two more free throws, extending their advantage to 68-64 with only 14 seconds left. Though Urquhart responded with another three-pointer for WCU, it wasn’t enough to turn the tide. Schreiner sealed the hard-fought victory with two final free throws, solidifying the Gorillas’ win in overtime.
Looking ahead, the Pittsburg State Gorillas are set to resume their MIAA conference play against the University of Arkansas - Fort Smith on January 1, in Fort Smith, Arkansas. Tip-off is scheduled for 1:30 p.m. Central Time.
