Eagles Stop Wittenberg in "Battle of Springfield"; Prep For Final Week

 Eagles Stop Wittenberg Late Behind Platton, Dunn, Ajaezu in Battle of Springfield; Prep For Final Week 

By Deon Cash 

Clark State men's team faced off against Wittenberg in the Battle of Springfield last night and it was a absolute battle as Wittenberg gave the Eagles all they could handle before falling 91-87 at Wittenberg.

The Tigers had a 12-point lead early, and held on to the lead until the Eagles fought back late in the half.

Late in the 2nd half Clark State pulled it closer and with a Jadon Dunn layup, the Eagles would take a lead at  86-85.  But Wittenberg would not stop fighting, and after a basket, they went up 87-86 with under a minute to go. 

Trevor Platten &  Jadon Dunn Lead Way in Win

 On the next possession shooting guard Trevor Platten would dial in from deep, hitting his final dagger three ball that would put the Eagles up for good (89-87).

Wittenberg would have a chance to tie the game up, but a huge block and defensive rebound by All - American candidate Nnamdi Ajaezu would seal the deal. He also would hit the final free throws to end the Tigers chances and push the Eagles to 19-8 on the season. 

"It wasn't pretty but we got the win. I'm proud of the guys for fighting and finding a way to win. Wittenberg fought hard. Now we have to handle business next week, starting with Cuyahoga." Quinton Alstork, the head coach of Clark State, stated after the game.

The Eagles will play Cuyahoga on the road on Monday, and with a win, comes sole possession of third place.

"We have worked so hard for this moment. Now is our time." Alstork said.  

Clark State will face Cuyahoga on Monday, Hocking on Wednesday and Lakeland on Saturday in the finale.

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