Men’s Basketball: Raiders Win Overtime Thriller

Freshman Derek Merwick (pictured) scored the game-winning shot as the Raiders defeated Doane University JV in overtime, 76-74, on Tuesday night in Crete.

Central jumped out to a big lead in the first half and led 40-31 at intermission. The Tigers roared back in the second half and took control, leading 67-65 with time running out. CCC's Caleb Muia forced the extra session with a game-tying shot to make the score 67-67 at the end of regulation.

"We got out to a big lead in the first half, and I think we got lazy and careless because of that," said CCC head coach John Ritzdorf. "We started taking shots we don't normally take, and we weren't guarding with as much urgency as we did to start the game. Credit Doane for hitting tough shots and coming back."

Muia led CCC in scoring with 21 points while Kevin Cook added 19 points. Merwick finished with 11 points.

"Caleb was outstanding, and Kevin was great on the glass giving us extra possessions," said Ritzdorf. "Derek played really well throughout the game and especially in overtime when he hit two huge shots for us to take home the win."

With the win, the Raiders improve to 11-5 on the season and winners of three straight.

CCC will return to action on Monday night with a home game against Peru State College JV. Tipoff at the Raider Fieldhouse is set for 7:30 p.m.