Miami (OH) delivered a thrilling overtime victory against Kent State on Friday night, with Peter Suder’s 22-point showcase and Eian Elmer’s game-winning 3-pointer electrifying the Oxford crowd. The RedHawks (20-7, 11-3 Mid-American Conference) snapped Kent State’s five-game winning streak in a 96-92 nail-biter that showcased high-stakes college basketball at its finest.
Suder dominated with 22 points, five rebounds, and six assists, while Elmer’s 17-point effort included five 3-pointers – none bigger than his dagger with 21 seconds left in OT. Brant Byers added 12 points, including 10 in a first half that saw Miami (OH) take a narrow 44-41 lead.
Kent State (18-9, 8-6) fought valiantly behind Delrecco Gillespie’s 20-point, 12-rebound double-double and Jalen Sullinger’s 20-point contribution. The Golden Flashes erased a second-half deficit to force overtime but couldn’t contain Miami’s late-game execution.
Key factors in the RedHawks’ victory:
- 45% 3-point shooting (12/26) vs. Kent State’s 33%
- 20 assists on 28 made field goals
- Perfect 8/8 free throws in overtime
The win solidifies Miami (OH)’s position atop the Mid-American Conference standings, while Kent State must regroup before hosting Toledo on Tuesday. With March Madness looming, this overtime thriller underscores both teams’ postseason potential.