Fired up by the enthusiastic home crowd, Gallaudet put on their best shooting display of the season in the first half tonight versus York, and looked to be well on their way to a big win at home, but a cold stretch in the second half, let York back in the game.  In a second half that saw both teams exchange the lead, it took overtime to settle this one. The final score was York 84 Gallaudet 77.

Beginning their final semester of playing in front of their biggest fans, Gallaudet seniors Sekoe White and Jon Mowl put on a dazzling show in the first half. White was 6-8 from the floor, including 3-4 from behind the 3-point line, good for 17 points, and he also made 3 spectacular blocks under the basket that sent the home crowd into a frenzy. marveling at what they had seen. Mowl was 5-6 in the first half, including 4-5 from behind the 3-point line, good for 14 points and made 2 steals. Chi Pun had an impressive half with 7 assists and 5 rebounds. As a team, Gallaudet shot 17-27 from the field, good for 63%, and made all 5 of their field goals to take a 48-37 halftime lead.

York started off the second half with a 18-5 run to take the lead, and the game stayed close the rest of the way. York pulled ahead by 1 point with two and a half minutes left, but White took over, taking the ball inside twice for lay-ups against double teams. Gallaudet had a 4 point lead in the final minute, but a 3-pointer by York when the lead was 3, tied the game, and Gallaudet wasn't able to get off a good shot in the final 20 seconds of regulation.

In overtime, it was all York, as Gallaudet was not able to score, despite several open opportunities.

For the game, Gallaudet shot 41%. White lead Gallaudet with 25 points, 6 rebounds, and 4 blocks. Mowl scored 24 points and had 3 steals. Tony Tatum scored 15 points. Pun had 8 rebounds and 8 assists.

After the game Gallaudet Head Coach Jeb Barber talked about what his team did well today and what they need to start doing.  "I was very impressed with how we played in the first half, feeding off the energy of the home crowd.  We passed well, took smart shots, and pushed the ball upcourt." In response to how Gallaudet played the first part of the second half, Coach Barber said, "We can't let teams back into the game when we grab a big lead. Even after falling behind, I was pleased to see us fight back to regain the lead."

Coach Barber promised his team will keep playing hard. "I know we have a very good team and with our fans support, we will continue to play hard every game."

Gallaudet is 7-8.  York is 5-12. Gallaudet will play again at home Saturday, January 24, at 3 pm versus Maryland Bible College, in a rematch of the Gallaudet Holiday Tournament Championship. There will not be a women's game on Saturday.