SALEM, West Virginia - In the season opening contest for Salem men's basketball, they defeated Glenville State in a neutral site bash in Fairmont. This time around the Pioneers made the trip up to Salem for another shot at beating the Tigers. However, they were sent packing with a dramatic 95-93 overtime victory for Salem men's basketball.
In the first half, Salem found themselves in a hole early as the Pioneers came out of the locker room with some hot outside shooting. The Pioneer advantage grew to as much as 13, and the game was looking grim for Salem. However, thanks to some strong play from Rodney Smith distributing the ball from his point guard position, Salem was able to slowly eat away at the Pioneer lead. By the end of the half, Glenville State maintained only a tight 50-45 advantage.
In the second half, Salem kicked their comeback bid into high gear. The Tigers offensive adjustments at the half worked wonders as Stan Smith and Ian Hardy helped the Tigers bring the game level. However, the Pioneers were not able to go away easily. Both teams traded shots down the stretch, and Salem found themselves trailing in the final moments of the game. However, a Pioneer foul brought Fope Okuyiga to the foul line, and he brought the game back level with two clutch free throws to force overtime.
In the overtime period, the game remained neck and neck. However, it would be Ian Hardy who hit a clutch free throw to put the Tigers up two in the final seconds. A final Pioneer shot at the buzzer missed the mark, and the Tigers came away with a 95-93 thrilling victory.
On the stats sheet, Salem had 4 players in double figures. Stan Smith led the way with 27 points. The other three were all from the Salem bench with Ian Hardy's 19 points, Fope Okuyiga's 14 points, and Kapone Barley's 10 points.
After this dramatic victory, Salem men's basketball will go into their holiday break on a high note. They do not get back into action until after New Year's Day when they take on a third consecutive local rival at home. The West Virginia Wesleyan Bobcats will come over to Salem from Buckhannon on Monday, January 2nd at 7:30 PM.
