Clark State Knocks Off #1 Cuyahoga; Back on 3 Game Winning Streak; Dunn, Miller, Thompson Come up Clutch

 Clark State Knocks Off  #1 Cuyahoga, Back on 3-Game Winning Streak; Dunn, Miller, Thompson Come up Clutch

The Clark State Eagles has been on a roller coaster ride this season, and once again, they are on the good side of the tracks as they knocked off one of the top teams in the OCCAC with a thrilling 106-98 victory to keep their hopes alive in a tough conference against a elite team.

In a game where the intensity was high and the stakes were even higher, Clark State lead by a small margin at half. Lakeland and Clark State would trade battles all night long. 

In the decisive moments, with the game tied late, G-F Brandon Miller, the Eagles sophomore leader,  hit a tough layup to give the Eagles the lead. Lakeland would miss on their attempt, and G Tabias Thompson would seal the deal with two clutch free throws to grab the win it the decisive moments.

"That was sensational effort by the team. We knew what we had to do, and we got it done. To lose multiple starters and still continue to fight and knock off the top team?  I'm so proud of my boys, and now we have to keep that momentum." Coach Alstork stated. 

Starters Isaiah Richardson (F)  had a good game with a double double (14 pts, 13 reb, 2 blks) along with guard Nnamdi Ajaezu (17pts, 7 reb, 4 stls)  while subs Trevor Platton (5 three pointers, 16pts),  Jaden Dunn (16 pts, 9 dimes, 2 stls), Omar Banks (10 pts) and F-C Julius Pullen (15 pts, 6 reb) provided some great bench production.  Add a starter back to the mix in Jarmaine Tubbs and now the Eagles could be ready for a late run for a tournament bid.

The Eagles are now 11-7 and sit in 3rd place in the conference. With 5 teams who have 3 losses or less, the OCCAC is still up for grabs entering the 2nd half and stretch run of the season.

"We have to stay grounded and grind every game. We are getting healthy, and  we have to focus on one game at a time. We are right there. we have to finish strong." Alstork stated after the big win.

WILMINGTON GAME POSTPONED AS EAGLES START 5-GAME HOMESTAND ON WEDNESDAY 

The Eagles now ready for a long stretch of home games where they will play 5 games in Springfield,  starting with Community Christian (Mich) on the 28th. On Saturday the 31st they have Bryant Stratton, followed by Wright Patt on Monday. 

The game on Monday vs Wilmington was postponed.  No date has been re-scheduled for game yet.  

Here's the upcoming home Schedule for Eagles: 

Jan 26th  - Wilmington JV (Postponed)

Jan 28th - Community Christian (Mich)

Jan 31st - Bryant - Stratton 

Feb 2nd - Wright Patt 

Feb 3rd - Wittenberg JV

This is a crucial stretch for the Eagles as they prep for a huge ending in the conference. With #1 vs #2 battling, and the Eagles just a game or two from the top, anything is possible in the OCCAC. 

After this home stand they will face Edison State on the 11th of February.  

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