Tigers Pick Up Win Over Dodge City

Men's Basketball picked up their second conference win of the season over the Dodge City Conquistadors, 94-91 in overtime. 

Tech came out firing, racing to a 10-0 lead just four and a half minutes into the game. Dodge City called an early timeout to regroup, and their offense soon found its rhythm, cutting the lead to five points with eight minutes remaining in the first half. However, the Tigers maintained their offensive momentum, going on a 19-9 run to close the half with a commanding 47-29 lead.

The Conquistadors wasted no time in the second half, scoring a quick layup within the first 10 seconds. Despite the early pressure, the Tigers were able to extend their lead out to 27 points with just under 13 minutes remaining. However, a scoring drought by Tech allowed Dodge City to chip away with an 11-0 run. The Tigers finally broke the drought with a pair of free throws just before the 10-minute mark, but another cold stretch allowed Dodge City to mount another surge.

With 4:39 left in regulation, the Conqs brought the game within single digits and continued to claw their way back. The Tigers, unable to score in the final four minutes of the second half, saw their lead evaporate as Dodge City forced overtime, tying the game at 82-82.

In overtime, the Conqs seemed poised to take the win, building a 91-86 lead with just 90 seconds left on the clock. The Tigers, however, stayed resilient, with Chase Harris knocking down a crucial three-pointer with 30 seconds remaining, cutting the deficit to two. Moments later, Dodge City committed a costly turnover, giving Tech another opportunity with 21 seconds to play. Da'King Smith capitalized on the chance, sinking a critical three-pointer with 15 seconds remaining to put the Tigers ahead by one. Another turnover by the Conqs forced them to foul, allowing the Tigers to seal the game at the free throw line.

The Tigers finished with four players in double figures, with Chase Harris leading the way with 32 points. Marquintez Dixon also played an excellent game, picking up a 15-point and 12-rebound double-double.

Fort Hays Tech Northwest will look to keep the momentum going as they face the #17 ranked Barton Community College Cougars on Wednesday.