Cats Edge Phoenix in Closing Seconds

MCKENZIE, Tenn. - The Bethel University Wildcats won their second game in a row with a 77-75 victory over the visiting Phoenix of Cumberland University Saturday.

With 11 seconds left, Cumberland's Demarius Boyd was at the line to give the Phoenix the lead but missed the front end of a one-and-one. Bethel's Querrion Gadson dribbled down the court and hit a game-winning layup with three seconds left as Bethel won 77-75.

The Wildcats moved to 14-12 overall and 3-7 in the MSC. Cumberland dropped to 6-19 and 2-8.

Gadson posted 21 points including the game winner for Bethel. He also added in eight boards while shooting 8-13 from the field. Kenyon Maddox scored 14 points off the bench with eight boards. Connor Guthrie also added 10 points.

Boyd led CU with 21 points. Three other players scored in double figures for the Phoenix.

Bethel shot 51.6% from the field and 50% from three. The Wildcats also outrebounded the Phoenix 36-29. Cumberland shot 49.1% from the field and made 6-of-11 threes. 

The Wildcats had a seven-point lead late in the first half only to see CU close the half with a 12-4 run and lead 45-44 at the break.

Cumberland started the second half by building their largest lead of the game at eight, leading 57-49 and later 63-55 with 10 minutes to play. The Cats closed the game with a 20-12 run to win.

 Coach Jeff Britt commented, "Cumberland is hard to guard with their four guards. We stayed on course and found a way to win. I am proud of our effort and victory."  

The Cats remain at home hosting Lindsey Wilson Thursday at 7:30 p.m. It will be Senior night with ceremonies taking place before the tip-off.

Watch:

https://www.bethelathletics.com/watch

Stats:

https://bethel.prestosports.com/sports/mbkb/index

Listen:

https://www.thefarmradio.com/farm-sports-and-events

Tickets:

https://www.bethelathletics.com/tickets