JOHNSON, Vt.- The Northern Vermont University-Johnson men's basketball program outlasted Vermont Technical College in the final game of the 2019 NVU Tip-Off Classic by a score of 95-87 in the overtime win.
Six players were in double figures for the Badgers in their win over Vermont Tech. The Badgers were led by Jaymes Savage who scored 17 second half points. Ayodeji Shokeye contributed 16 points and Robert Dubose added 14 points on 6-8 shooting from the field. NVU-Johnson trailed for the majority of the first half and the Knights offense was ignited by Jeremiah Shaw who had a game high 25 points. Vermont Tech's defense posed to be a problem for the Badgers and the team went into the break trailing 39-32.
Shaw opened up the second half with a three-point field goal. With the Knights in the lead the Badgers had opportunities to score but were held scoreless with 15 minutes remaining in the half when freshman Kiyl Mack made a jump shot to bring the deficit to five. A Shokeye three point make gave the Badgers the 52-50 lead with just 10 minutes remaining. Both teams traded blows that resulted in a 12-5 run for NVU-Johnson.
With both sides close and only a minute remaining in regulation Shaw stepped up for the Knights and was fouled after attacking the basket and was granted two shots from the charity stripe. Shaw capitalized and sank both to force overtime with the game knotted at 74 a piece. Back to back baskets for Dubose and sophomore Tyhee Taylor gave the Badgers the slight advantage. Up four with the possession Savage made a slashing cut and made the layup to advance the lead to six. The Badgers continued to roll through the extra period and eventually earned the win by a score of 95-87.
With the win men's basketball improves to 1-1 on the season. Jaymes Savage earned All-Tournament Team honors for the Badgers in the win.
UP NEXT
The Badgers are set to travel to Plymouth State University on Tuesday, November 12 for a 7:30pm tip-off.