ARKADELPHIA, Ark.—The Delta State Statesmen get a huge win on the road after beating the Tigers of Ouachita Baptist in overtime 85-78 Monday, Feb. 14 in Vining Arena.

After going into halftime tied (33 all) and ending regulation tied (72 all), the Statesmen pulled ahead in overtime to bring them to a 6-4 record in the Gulf South conference.

The entire game was close to say the least.

The Statesmen came back from an 11 point deficit to tie it up 33-33 going into the half. Both DSU and OBU had 19 rebounds each and both teams shot just over 35 percent from the floor. Needless to say, the first half was a close race. But the Statesmen found a way to close the gap on the free throw line. In the first half, the green-and-white shot 90.9 percent from the line (10-11).

In the second half, both teams continued to go back and fourth. Neither team lead then more than four points. DSU and OBU were tied a total of seven times in just the second half.

But the rhythm changed in overtime as the Statesmen took control. With 2:56 left to play, Phil Turner hit a three to take the lead, 77-74, and they never gave it back.

Phil Turner had a tremendous night. Not only did he achieve a double-double with his 29 points, 13 rebounds and six assists, he was perfect from the free throw line (14-14).

“I'm glad Phil [Turner] showed up for us tonight,” said head coach Jason Conner. “His free throws were key to us winning.”

The Statesmen shot 42. 9 percent from the floor (27-63) and 30.8 percent from beyond the arch (8-26). Most importantly they were 85.7 percent from the line (24-28).

The Statesmen out-rebounded the Tigers 46-35.

“It was a road win and a big one,” said Conner.

Delta State will host Henderson State University for their second matchup of the season Feb. 17 at Sillers Coliseum. Tip off is set for 6:00 p.m.