OREM, Utah (AP)—Utah Valley State forward Russell Wesley sunk a 28-foot shot to send Saturday night’s game against Sacramento State into overtime and then came up with a crucial rebound to help secure a 71-69 win.
With time running out in regulation and Sacramento State (4-3) leading 62-59, UVSC (3-4) called a play for guard Matt Peterson. When Peterson tripped, though, Wesley launched the long three-point shot that sent the game into overtime.
Near the end of overtime and with the Wolverines clinging to a 71-69 lead, Sacramento State guard Haron Hargrave drove the lane and threw up a wild shot that missed. Several players tipped the loose ball before Wesley finally corralled the rebound with 7.3 seconds left.
The game ended with the Hornets getting one last chance after Wesley was fouled and missed both free throws, but Hargrave again appeared out of control in unleashing a wild shot at the final buzzer.
Sacramento State led 29-21 at halftime.
The Hornets stretched their lead to 17 points at 41-24 five minutes into the second half.
UVSC got back in the game by scoring 15 straight points to cut the lead to 41-39.
Sacramento State led by six in the final minute of regulation before 3-pointers by David Heck and Wesley tied the game.
The Wolverines never held a lead until going up 65-62 in overtime on a 3-pointer by Peterson.
DaShawn Freeman led the Hornets with 17 points and five assists, but Sacramento State missed his ball handling after he fouled out in overtime.
Peterson led UVSC with 17 points. Heck added 15 for the Wolverines, and center Ben Devoe had a double-double with 11 points and 10 rebounds.
