MCLA rallies for overtime win in over Suffolk; will play Endicott Tomorrow

Beverly, MA- MCLA's Jamal Brown had 18 points and 7 rebounds as the Trailblazers rallied for an 86-78 overtime victory over Suffolk in the Endicott Classic.  MCLA will now face Endicott tomorrow at 2pm in the championship game.  Endicott rolled past UMaine-Augusta 102-53 in the tournament opener.

Trailblazer Vernon Cross nailed a three pointer with two seconds remaining in regulation to send the game into overtime tied at 71.

With Suffolk leading 70-66, Brown converted a layup in the final minute bringing the Trailblazers within two.  After Colin Halpin hit one of two from the line, Cross would bury the game tying three pointer with just two seconds on the clock.

In the extra session, the Trailblazers used a 10-2 run over the final three minutes turning a tie game at 76 into a victory.  Tyrell Mosley began the decisive run with a pair of layups, while Chris Harris chipped in with a pair of baskets.  Suffolk never challenged in the final minutes.

MCLA led 36-33 at the break and expanded the margin to nine at 53-44 following a Richard Johnson putback.  The Rams would rally however, eventually tying the score at 59 after a pair of Jevic Muteba free throws.  Suffolk would actually hold a four point lead late before MCLA rallied. 

Harris would finish with 14 points, while Bilal Shabazz also managed 14 points and 7 steals. Cross would finish with 11 points.

Suffolk's Matt Pepdjonovic netted a game high 30 points while grabbing 21 rebounds.  Chris Torres and Halpin each added 14 points.

Suffolk was doomed by 33 turnovers to just 13 for MCLA.  The Rams also outrebounded MCLA 53-39.