Buena Vista, VA - In a gripping overtime showdown, the Southern Virginia men's basketball team narrowly lost to reigning champions N.C. Wesleyan University with a final score of 80-88.

The Knights faced early struggles on the offensive end in the first half, falling behind by seven points. However, contributions from DJ Green and Koa Baker helped them level the score at 13 points each. Despite N.C. Wesleyan's 10 unanswered points, the Knights rallied with layups from Malakai Olson and Tyler Kartchner, narrowing the halftime deficit to 31-34.

The second half saw the Knights asserting their dominance, equalizing the score at 41 with a powerful dunk from Kartchner. Although the offense hit a lull, consecutive three-pointers from Sam Jex ignited a surge, giving the Knights an 11-point lead with seven minutes remaining.

Down the stretch, the Knights maintained their offensive momentum. However, a seven-point lead with a minute and a half left allowed N.C. Wesleyan to mount a comeback, tying the game at 71 apiece with critical free throws and forcing the contest into overtime.

In overtime, N.C. Wesleyan's proficiency from the free-throw line proved decisive, going 9-11 and securing the 88-80 victory.

Key performances for the Knights included Baker's impressive 28-point game, shooting 50% from three-point range, and Green's contribution of 17 points. Olson narrowly missed a double-double with nine rebounds and 13 points, while Kartchner chipped in with 11 points, 3 steals, and five boards.

The Knights will seek redemption when they face Greensboro College on Wednesday, with tip-off scheduled for 7:00 PM.

For the most up-to-date information and details about the team, visit knightathletics.com and follow @knight_hoops on Instagram.