The Warriors got off to a rough start against the Cougars’ zone defense, turning the ball over 16 times in the first half and scoring just 24 points. Misericordia appeared to be in charge with an 11-point lead going into the half.

Lycoming, however, did not fold under pressure eventually chipping away at a 14-point deficit midway through the final period to close with one with five minutes to play. With the game tied at 69-69 with a minute to play, the Warriors took a two-point lead on a put-back by Matt Stackhouse (Jr./Hughesville, PA; Hughesville).

The Cougars then had possession with the shot clock turned off but Nick Myers (So./Shamokin, PA; Shamokin) came up with a steal for Lycoming. Myers was quickly fouled and missed both free throws, but hustled to get another steal off his rebounded miss. This time he got the ball to Tommy Wesner (Sr./Dillsburg, PA; Northern) who was quickly fouled. Wesner knocked down both shots to give the Warriors a 73-69 advantage with just seconds to play.

Misericordia, however, would not go quietly as Willie Chandler hit a three-pointer with 13 seconds to play to close within one. Wesner was again fouled on the inbounds, but coolly sunk both free throws to ice the game.

Wesner led all players with 24 points in the contest, including an 8-for-9 performance from the free-throw line. He also led the team with seven assists. Stackhouse added 16 points while grabbing a game-high 13 rebounds.

Lycoming scored 51 points in the second half on the strength of 55% shooting from the field.