PLAINVIEW --- Wayland Baptist men's basketball delivered a statement win Monday night, outlasting #9 Langston in overtime, 73–67, inside a packed Hutcherson Center to improve to 19–5 overall and 13–5 in conference play. This is the Pioneers' second win over a top 10 team in the last week and a half.
The Pioneers showed resilience from start to finish, overcoming a five-point halftime deficit and closing the game with authority in overtime to secure one of their most complete team victories of the season.
Wayland Baptist trailed 35–30 at the break after a competitive first half but came out of the locker room with renewed energy.
Jamari Lawrence and
Marcus Green led the charge early in the second half, combining shot-making with steady leadership as the Pioneers chipped away at the deficit. Lawrence connected on timely three-pointers, while Green attacked the lane and controlled the tempo offensively.
The second half turned into a back-and-forth battle, with neither team able to create separation. Wayland Baptist's defense tightened in crucial moments, forcing tough shots and turnovers that kept the Pioneers within striking distance. With the score tied at 61 at the end of regulation, Wayland Baptist carried momentum into overtime.
In the extra period, the Pioneers were locked in on both ends of the floor.
Brett Leach knocked down a massive three-pointer that ignited the crowd and gave Wayland Baptist the edge.
Chuks Ejiofor followed with strong play inside, converting free throws and providing a physical presence in the paint. Down the stretch,
Marcus Green sealed the victory with a powerful dunk, punctuating a dominant overtime performance.
Lawrence finished with 22 points, shooting 4-for-8 from beyond the arc, while Green matched him with 22 points and added key defensive stops late.
Julian Perez contributed 13 points off the bench, giving Wayland Baptist a significant spark and helping the Pioneers win the bench-scoring battle. Ejiofor added seven points and six rebounds, making his impact felt when it mattered most.
Wayland Baptist shot 46.4 percent from the field and outscored Langston 12–6 in overtime, showcasing composure, depth, and toughness in a high-pressure environment.
The Pioneers will put their current four-game win streak on the line Thursday, February 12
th, when they hit the road for a showdown against the Stars of Oklahoma City University. The game is scheduled to begin at 8:00 PM.
