Second Half Surge Leads Yellow Jackets to Dramatic Finish

RICHMOND, IND. - The Defiance College men's basketball team made their last road trip of the season on Wednesday evening. The Yellow Jackets took on Earlham College and battled the Quakers to the wire, falling 68-67. 

A strong performance from Tyler Andrew (Indianapolis, Ind. / Lawrence Central) highlighted the contest. The freshman scored 20 points while grabbing 13 rebounds to complete his double-double. Sean Tyson (Columbus / Centennial) followed with 16 points. Sophomore Michaiah Cox (Ft. Recovery / Ft. Recovery) scored his career high with 12 points, and grabbed eight rebounds in the battle. 

The first half saw the Quakers outscore Defiance 45-37. The majority of the half was highlighted by back-and-forth basketball prior to Earlham pulling away to a slight advantage. 

Coach Scott Cutter's side came out of the locker room looking to close the Quaker lead. Playing tough basketball the Yellow Jackets did just that. 

A five point run early in the half had the score at Earlham 50, Defiance 45 as the Jackets looked to finish the chase and grab the lead. After the Quakers pulled out front, DC once again kicked it into a higher gear and fought to within just one point with a minute left on the clock. 

With DC possessing the ball looking for the last basket, Jordan Maschino (Bradford / Covington) drove to the lane. He was met by a wall of Quakers, who forced the ball into Cox's hands for a last second jumper. The sophomore's shot could not quite find its way through the hoop as the Quakers held on for the dramatic victory. 

The loss leaves Defiance's record at 3-21 overall and a 1-16 mark in HCAC play. The Yellow Jackets will return home for the season finale on Saturday, Feb. 16. The double header against Hanover College will also serve as Senior Day for the men's and women's basketball programs.