Cougars Clinch Thrilling Fifth Straight Victory in Epic Double Overtime Showdown

NASHVILLE, Tenn. – SIUE outscored Tennessee State 12-5 in the second overtime session as the Cougars triumphed over the Tigers 87-80 in double overtime, marking their fifth consecutive victory.

This win marks the first in overtime since 2019, when the Cougars achieved two overtime victories.

With this victory, SIUE improved to 5-2 in OVC competition and 12-6 overall. Tennessee State fell to 2-5 in the league and 6-12 overall.

Brian Taylor II contributed seven points, while Ray’Sean Taylor added another five points during the second overtime as the Cougars claimed their first win at Tennessee State since 2021.

The Tigers led by up to 11 points in the first half, concluding the half with a 35-31 edge.

In the second half, SIUE extended its lead to as much as nine points. The Cougars were ahead 71-67 near the end of regulation; however, the Tigers rallied to equalize at 71 with a free throw, allowing them to take the lead with just 3.5 seconds remaining. The free throw was unsuccessful, and SIUE gained possession with 1.5 seconds left. A half-court attempt failed to ensure the game went to overtime.

With under 10 seconds left in the first overtime period, SIUE found itself trailing 75-73. Ray’Sean Taylor drove to the basket and was fouled, making both free throws to tie the game at 75, thereby necessitating a second overtime.

Brian Taylor II matched his career high with 23 points, leading four Cougars in double digits. He recorded 7-14 shooting and was 3-4 from beyond the arc. Ray’Sean Taylor scored 21 points, including 10-11 at the free throw line. Ring Malith added 16 points, while Kyle Thomas contributed 10 points following his initial start for the Cougars. Declan Dillon achieved a season-high of eight points while also securing a team-high of eight rebounds.

After shooting 37 percent in the first half, SIUE improved to 14-25 (56 percent) from the field in the second half of regulation. The Cougars hit 10-20 from three-point range, including 7-13 in the second half and overtime.

Tennessee State’s top scorer was Aaron Nkrumah, with 16 points. Carlous Williams added 13 points, with Travis Harper and Ronald Jessamy each scoring 11.

The Tigers’ overall shooting was 27-60 (45 percent) and 6-19 (32 percent) from three-point territory. TSU made 6-12 from long range in the first half and struggled with 0-7 after halftime.

Both teams recorded 40 rebounds. The Cougars forced the Tigers into 19 turnovers and tallied 10 steals.

SIUE will continue its road trip with a game scheduled for Saturday afternoon at UT Martin.