By GERARD WELLBROCK
Hays Post

TAHLEQUAH, Okla. – Fort Hays State shot 59-percent in the first half, building a 14-point lead then held off a furious second half comeback bid from Northeastern State for an 87-84 win Thursday night at the NSU Event Center. The Tigers (19-8, 13-8 MIAA), who have won four straight, secure a spot in the MIAA tournament quarterfinals in Kansas City.

Mark Johnson Postgame Interview

 

Game Highlights

 

Northeastern State (8-17, 7-14 MIAA) outscored the Tigers 26-12 over a 10 minute stretch of the second half to take a two-point lead. They were up 72-70 with 5:38 to play when FHSU strung together five straight points to take the lead for good. The RiverHawks tied the game 77-77 with 1:13 to play but a three-point play from Craig Nicholson with 0:51 keyed another 5-0 run. The Tigers knocked down seven of their eight free throws in the final minute as they offset a season-high 12 three-pointers from NSU.

Rob Davis and Dom Samac led four Tigers in double-figures with 18 points each. Hadley Gillum scored a career-high 14 and matched his career-high with seven rebounds. Craig Nicholson added 10 points.

Northeastern State was led by Montre’ Williams and Tanner Mouse who both scored 16.