News and Updates

Buzzer Beater Gives Hawks Basketball Two-Game Sweep Of Applebee’s Classic

Keyshaun Street had only eight points Saturday afternoon against Indian River State, but his last three will be remembered forever in South Georgia State College basketball history.

Street’s three-pointer as time expired capped an improbable 20-point comeback by the Hawks in the final nine minutes to defeat the Pioneers 70-67 in the last game of the Applebee’s Okefenokee College Classic.

“That play was actually designed for Nate (Louis),” said Street after the game. “Nate saw the play break down, so he kept it going, which is a drill we practice every day.”

The Hawks’s (5-0) path to victory didn’t look very promising after the Pioneers built a 39-28 lead at halftime and stretched their lead to 63-43 with less than 10 minutes remaining in regulation. After chipping away at the lead, the Hawks found themselves trailing by only four (67-63) with 1:36 left on the clock.

The Hawks forced two Pioneer turnovers in a span of 30 seconds, and Charles Botchway’s three-pointer with 41.9 seconds remaining cut the lead to 67-66. Another Indian River turnover gave the Hawks new life. Skyer Baggs was fouled driving to the basket, sending Baggs to the free throw line with 16.2 seconds left and a chance to take the lead. He hit 1-of-2 free throws to tie the game.

Upon Indian River’s next possession, Cedric Jackson drove to the basket for the win and was called for an offensive foul, giving the ball back to the Hawks with 7.5 seconds remaining.

During the final timeout, Baldwin set up the play for Louis but stressed to his players to share the ball if the play was not there.

“That’s exactly what they did,” said Baldwin. “Nate shared it with (Charles) Botchway, who shared it with (Keyshaun) Street.”

Baldwin said the Hawks are the first team this season to play a close game with the Pioneers, who have won each of their games thus far by at least 22 points.

“They’re (Indian River) are a good team. I told the guys to keep pressuring the ball, because the game was not over. I think our pressure did wear them down some in the second half,” Baldwin said. “We fought our way back, and I couldn’t be prouder of this team.”

Louis finished the game as the only Hawk in double figures with 24 points, five rebounds, and five assists.

The Hawks defeated Denmark Tech 96-81 Friday night in the first game of the Applebee’s Classic.

The Hawks will wrap up this current homestand Tuesday night, Nov. 21 at 7 p.m. against Middle Georgia Prep. General admission to all regular season home games is five dollars with children five and under admitted free.

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PHOTO: Keyshaun Street drives for two of his eight points Saturday afternoon against Indian River State College. (Photo courtesy of Bo Carter)