The Triceratops defeat Lakeland in double OT

Triceratops Break Through for Thrilling Win at Lakeland

The Triceratops (13-8, 8-2) stunned the Lakeland Lakers (13-5, 7-2) in a dramatic double overtime battle, securing their first-ever victory against Lakeland since the reintroduction of athletics in 2022. The Lakers had been undefeated against Tri-C, holding a perfect 4-0 record prior to last night's classic showdown, but the Triceratops came out on top with a hard-fought 91-90 win.

Devonte Greene and Adisa Molton led the charge, each scoring 20 points, while Chris Brownlee (18 points) and Saevion Brown (14 points) contributed in key moments. Despite the Lakers holding a commanding 10-point lead with just 3:55 left in regulation, the Triceratops mounted a furious comeback. Down by four with just 36.6 seconds remaining, freshman Corey Wilson delivered a clutch performance that would change the game.

With 22 seconds left, the Lakers missed the front end of a one-and-one, and the Triceratops seized the opportunity. Brownlee grabbed the rebound and raced down the left side of the floor. As he approached the three-point line, Wilson set a ghost screen, allowing Brownlee to attempt a contested three-pointer that sailed wide right. But Wilson was right there to grab the rebound, and in the ensuing chaos, he was fouled while attempting a reverse layup. Calmly, Wilson sunk both free throws with just 0.6 seconds left, sending the game into the first overtime.

The second overtime was a back-and-forth frenzy, with both teams trading blows. The Triceratops briefly held a four-point lead with 24 seconds to go, but the Lakers responded with a quick layup and then forced a turnover from the Tops. With 11 seconds left, the Lakers made another layup to tie the game. In the final moments of the second overtime, Wilson stepped up once again. After hitting one of two free throws to break an 88-88 tie, he stole the ball with 24 seconds left, only for the Triceratops to turn it over immediately. The Lakers converted a quick layup, giving them a one-point lead.

Down by one with just seconds remaining, Brownlee was fouled while attempting to drive past a Laker defender. The tension was palpable, but Brownlee coolly drained both free throws, silencing the crowd and sealing the victory for the Triceratops.

Key Takeaways:

• The Triceratops improved to 7-2 in conference play, capitalizing on 25 turnovers from the Lakers to score 25 points off those mistakes.
• Corey Wilson was a standout, leading the team with eight rebounds, while Adisa Molton recorded five assists.
• The Triceratops kept their offensive flow intact by committing just 12 turnovers, a crucial factor in maintaining control of the game.

Key Moment:
Wilson's ice-cold free throws at the end of regulation and in the first overtime were critical to securing the win. Brownlee's clutch performance from the line in the second overtime closed the door on the Lakers' hopes.

Key Stat:
Tri-C's ability to limit turnovers—committing just 12—was a game-changer, especially with the team shooting an impressive 53.5% from the field.

Next Up:
The Triceratops return home to Metro Gymnasium on February 1st, hosting Owens Community College in an early tip-off at 11:00 a.m. Be sure to come out and support the team!