Illinois Springfield recap
Illinois Springfield hit a 3-pointer with 0.3 seconds left to play to deal the Maryville men's basketball team a heartbreaking 82-79 defeat Saturday afternoon. Parker Long paced the Saints with 22 points while hitting six 3-pointers. Four other Maryville players reached double figures as Jalen Gant notched 15 points, Owen Long had 14 points, while Dezmond McDaniel and Ross Ryan both added 13.
 
What Happened
The Saints closed the first half on an 8-3 run, while shooting 62.1 percent, and started the second half with a Jalen Gant layup for a 49-45 lead. Chris White powered for a layup that started a quick 6-2 burst. Gant scored inside, and later hit two free throws for a 58-53 lead with 12:29 to play. UIS made consecutive 3-pointers to retake the advantage. Trailing 70-66, Parker Long sank a deep 3-pointer, and a short jumper by Ryan put the Saints ahead 71-70 at the 5:20 mark.
 
The teams traded the lead before Owen Long and McDaniel both hit long treys for a 77-75 margin. Chris Williams came through by hitting both ends of a one-and-one and a 79-76 lead with 2:11 left in the game. UIS tied the game on a three-point play to set up the final dramatic shot just before the buzzer as the hosts scored the final six points of the game.
 
Statistical Leaders
Points: Parker Long – 22
Rebounds: Owen Long – 8
Assists: Parker Long – 4
Steals: Chris Williams – 2
Blocked Shots: Jalen Gant – 2
3-Pointers: Parker Long – 6
 
Records
Maryville: 5-18, 1-15 GLVC
Lewis: 12-11, 7-8 GLVC
 
What's Next?
The Saints return home Thursday, Feb. 20, when Indianapolis visits for a 7:30 p.m. tip in Moloney Arena.