MONTGOMERY, Ala. – Huntingdon Men's Basketball pulled off a heart-stopping 93-92 overtime victory over Belhaven tonight at Roland Arena. The Hawks, who trailed for much of regulation, secured the win on a game-winning free throw by Jeremy Autin, completing a dramatic comeback against the conference rival. 

First Half

Huntingdon jumped out to an early lead behind a quick layup by Marcus Townsend and a pair of three-pointers from Tyler Malloryand Keyshawn Dickey, giving the Hawks a 13-6 advantage midway through the first half. Huntingdon's active defense created multiple turnovers, and Jeremy Autin contributed with key rebounds to extend possessions. Belhaven responded with a series of baskets, eventually erasing the deficit and taking a 22-21 lead. The teams traded baskets and free throws over the next several minutes, with neither side able to pull away. Myles Murphy provided a spark with several layups and a three-pointer, keeping Huntingdon in striking distance.In the closing minute, the Blazers hit key jump shots to go ahead 44-37 at the break.

Second Half

The second half saw Huntingdon find life as they battled back into contention. Marcus Townsend and Owen LaRocca sparked a run that trimmed Belhaven's lead to just a few points, while Autin grabbed critical rebounds and created second-chance opportunities. Belhaven saw their lead swell to as much as 18 early on in the second half behind some hot shooting from beyond the arc. The Hawks continued to battle, slowly clawing at the deficit before a pair of Andersen Madyun free throws brought the score to 83-78. Huntingdon, trailing  by five in the final minute of regulation, caught a second wind at the most critical moment, as Tyler Mallory combined a pair of baskets with 2 crucial steals to even things at 83 and force over time. 

Overtime

The extra period was a back-and-forth battle. Both teams traded baskets and defensive stops, with neither side able to build a decisive lead. Jeremy Autin emerged as the hero, converting a clutch free throw with under 10 seconds to go, giving Huntingdon a 93-92 lead. Belhaven had a final shot at the end but could not convert, allowing the Hawks to escape with the win.

Hawk Top Performers

• #3 Jeremy Autin – 8 points, 20 rebounds(career-high), 1 assist, and the game-winning free throw

• #10 Myles Murphy – 22 points, 8 rebounds, 2 steals

• #24 Tyler Mallory – 16 points, 4 steals

• #0 Eric Moore – 15 points, 7 rebounds, 3 assists, 2 steals

• #42 Andersen Madyun – 6 points, 7 rebounds, 3 blocks

The Hawks will aim to keep rolling at home on Friday, February 6th as they welcome Asbury University to Roland Arena. Tip-off is set for 6:00 PM CT.