GAME DETAILS
Howard Payne University 83, University of the Ozarks 80
Records: University of the Ozarks (6-10, 1-7 ASC), Howard Payne University (10-7, 4-5 ASC)
Thursday, Jan. 18, 2024
Clarksville, Ark.

THE BASICS
Clarksville, Ark. – Howard Payne University hit a three-point shot in traffic with 1.3 left in the game to shock the Eagles 83-80 Thursday night in conference play. Howard Payne led 80-74 with 1:31 remaining, but the Eagles fought back with a layup from Eric Gooden and a pair of free throws from Justice Marmara. Marmara's free throws came with 29 seconds left. The YelllowJackets would miss a pair of free throws to give the Eagles another possession. And Marmara, who scored 30 points, took advantage and scored with 11 seconds on a layup to tie the game at 80-80. Howard Payne would get another offensive possession and Riley Fornerette pulled up a drilled a tough three in the waning moments to give the YellowJackets a 83-80 lead. The Eagles would have the final possession, but couldn't get a shot off. Marmara finished with a double-double scoring 30 points and grabbing ten rebounds.

TOP EAGLES
Scoring – (30) Justice Marmara 
Rebounding – (10) Justice Marmara 
Assists – (4) Eric Gooden, Tim Eldridge 

TURNING POINT
A desperation three-pointer in traffic by Howard Payne proved to be the game-winner.  

TIP-INS
Justice Marmara finished with a double-double scoring 30 points and grabbing ten rebounds. It was his second double-double of the season.

UP NEXT
The Eagles will host Sul Ross State January 20.