Wonder Boys Hang On to Defeat Rangers

Arkansas Tech University held off a comeback bid by Northwestern Oklahoma State University to earn an 86-83 Great American Conference win in men’s basketball at Tucker Coliseum in Russellville on Saturday.

The Wonder Boys (6-1 overall, 3-1 GAC) led 77-56 with 8:09 remaining. The Rangers, who were undefeated coming into the game, fought back with a 24-7 run that cut Arkansas Tech’s lead to 84-80 with 19 seconds to go.

R.J. Glasper made two free throws to give the Wonder Boys an 86-80 advantage with 17 seconds left.

Northwestern’s Brandon Green was fouled on the ensuing possession and made 1-of-2 free throws. When he missed the second attempt, teammate Greg Minor got the offensive rebound and put-back basket to make it a one possession game at 86-83 with 10 seconds remaining.

An Arkansas Tech turnover opened the door to possible overtime, but Cody Halvorson’s 3-point try on the final shot of the game was no good and the Wonder Boys remained undefeated at home this season.

Trevin Woods led Tech in scoring with 20 points, 16 of which came in the first half. All 18 of Montrell Williams’ points came in the second half for the Wonder Boys, while Harris Brown chipped in 11 points and Glasper finished with 10 points and five assists.

Minor scored a team-high 18 points for the Rangers (6-1, 3-1).

Arkansas Tech will step out of conference play to host Hendrix College for an 8 p.m. contest at Tucker Coliseum in Russellville on Wednesday, Dec. 13. Radio station KCJC 102.3 FM and www.arkansastechsports.com will provide live coverage.