Tech claims share of OVC title with 74-59 win over Austin Peay
A tenacious defense, coupled with a enthusiastic crowd gave Tech the advantage Tuesday night as it defeated in-state rival Austin Peay 74-59 to claim at least a share of the 2005 OVC regular season championship. Tech improves to 11-4 in the OVC, and will be the conference's top seed when the OVC Tournament starts next Tuesday.
COOKEVILLE, Tenn. -- A tenacious defense, coupled with a enthusiastic crowd gave Tech the advantage Tuesday night as it defeated in-state rival Austin Peay 74-59 to claim at least a share of the 2005 OVC regular season championship. Tech improves to 11-4 in the OVC, and will be the conference's top seed when the OVC Tournament starts next Tuesday.
"It's very special to get this championship here at home to share with the entire university," said an elated TTU head coach Mike Sutton. "Our guys played extremely hard, and it was a special night for our seniors."
Seniors Ben Jacobson and Willie Jenkins were honored on Senior Night, and became the first class since 2002 to win the OVC title. Jenkins was the star of the night, scoring a game-high 23 points and grabbing six rebounds.
"It's very special for Ben and Willie to clinch the championship here on Senior Night," said Sutton. "They are two great people, and I can't say enough about what they have meant to this program."
The Golden Eagle defense gave the Governors' fits all night long, forcing them to shoot just 32 percent from the floor. APSU started cold, and could never get in a rhythm, as it got no closer than its 32-23 margin at the half.
Tech started hot, taking a commanding 10-2 lead just four minutes into the game and never looked back. The Golden Eagles stretched their lead to 28-12, its largest of the night, but the Govs fought back to cut the deficit to single digits going into halftime.
"APSU played hard," said Sutton. "You have to beat them because they aren't going to give you anything."
Tech saw three others score in double figures, as Derek Stribling and Milone Clark each had 14 points and a game-high nine rebounds, while Keyon Boyd added 11 points, six rebounds, and four assists.
TTU forced 17 turnovers, as its defense continues to be the story in its run at the OVC title.
"It's been a very competitive year," said Sutton. "I'm just proud of our kids, and how hard we've played on defense."
The Golden Eagles will conclude their regular season Saturday at Morehead State. Game time is 7:30 p.m. eastern. TTU's opening round opponent has yet to be determined, as they will host the eighth seed.
