ALMA, Mich. – The Alma College men's basketball hosted Olivet College on Saturday, February 18th, in a game that was filled with emotions. Alma and the MIAA hosted "Be Like Tye" games to honor former Alma player and coach Tye Edwards across the conference on February 18th. Teams wore "Be Like Tye" shirts to honor the legacy that Tye left behind for the years to come. Alma fought to the end with the Comets but ended up falling short and ending their season with an 88-85 defeat in overtime.

Olivet got on the board first and built a small lead for the first four minutes. Alma would battle back to down one before the Comets extended their lead back to a couple possessions. The Scots took their first lead of the game with 12 minutes remaining in the first half on a three-pointer from Landen Moore-Pierce. Connor Riley tacked on two more at the charity stripe, but Olivet would regain the lead moments later. Both teams shared the lead for the next several minutes as both offenses were finding their stride and causing defensive troubles. With five minutes left, Olivet would stretch their lead upwards of ten points feeling comfortable before going into half. Alma would convert on three offensive possessions in the final two minutes to go into the half trailing 47-40.

Both teams found themselves knocking down threes throughout the game and the second half started out with the same. Alma's first four possessions coming out of half were all converted three's taken by a variety of players. With just under 15 minutes remaining, Alma tied the game and found themselves with the lead just moments later. Alma was able to create a nine-point lead with nine minutes remaining before both teams battled nerves down the stretch. Olivet tightened the game down to one possession with five minutes left and created an intensified end to the regular season. Alma held on and found ways to continue to hold the lead over the Comets until the game was tied with about 45 seconds remaining. Both teams were held scoreless for the final possessions and the game headed to extra time. 

In overtime, Olivet recorded the first basket as Alma responded on the following possession. Olivet would take a six-point lead in overtime and the Scots found themselves having to battle back again. The game would come down to a final three point shot but Alma was not able to tie the game to send it to another overtime and Alma would see their season come to an end.

Moore-Pierce lead Alma in scoring for the day with 22 points, shooting 6-11 from downtown. Riley added 18 behind Moore-Pierce. Riley collected a game-high 14 rebounds and Colton Meister followed with 13. Both players recorded double-doubles for points and rebounds. Riley also had a game-high six assists and Meister recorded two blocks.

Alma also honored their four seniors on the roster/staff. Student Managers Zach Tuori and Cam Sutherland, and players Nate Deyman and Casey Constant were recognized for their contributions to the program over the past four years. Alma Athletics wishes them the best in the future endeavors.

Alma concluded their season at the final buzzer in overtime and will look to next season to make a leap in the conference and regional standings.

Stay up to date with the latest news, schedules, scores, recaps and more by downloading the official mobile app for Alma College Athletics. Search "Alma Scots Front Row" in the Apple App Store or on Google Play and download today for free.

Story Credit: Eli Pinter, Sports Information Intern