Spearfish, S.D. – The Black Hills State University men's basketball team finished their last regular season home game with a bang against Dakota State. The Yellow Jackets trailed early in the game but were able to fight their way back in the second half as they picked up the thrilling 74-72 win in double overtime on Senior Night.
It was a fitting finish for Black Hills State as they celebrated their lone senior Rob Johnson's outstanding career in front of a large crowd at the Donald E. Young Center. Playing in front of his home fans, Johnson led his team into battle against a strong Trojan team. The Yellow Jackets weathered the storm early in the first half as Dakota State fired on all cylinders, shooting 40% (11-27) in the first half compared to just 34% (9-26) by Black Hills State. The Yellow Jackets fell behind as they went into the intermission trailing 22-28.
Black Hills State needed a strong second half in order to overpower the Trojans, and they answered the call. The Yellow Jacket offense found its touch, making a run to pull in front of Dakota State late in the half. A made free throw by Brady Bisgaard put Black Hills State in front by three with just seconds remaining. A deep three point attempt from the Trojans found the glass and banked in the hoop to tie the game as the second half buzzer sounded.
The first overtime was an even battle throughout, with both teams trading fouls and buckets. It wasn't until late in the second overtime that the Yellow Jackets were able to solidify a significant cushion. Free throws from Tommy Earl and Ryan Allen were the eventual icing on the cake as Black Hills State sealed the victory 74-72.
The Yellow Jackets were led by seasoned veteran Rob Johnson who put together a performance he will never soon forget. Johnson scored a team high 20 points on 7-18 from the floor and 5-5 from the foul line. Johnson was also the team's leading rebounder with eight, and recorded six blocks defensively. Johnson was backed by his teammates Tommy Earl and Cameron Anderson who netted 19 and 16 points respectively for the Yellow Jackets. Earl also reeled in seven rebounds while Anderson pulled in five. True freshman guard Joey Mitchell was the other double digit scorer for Black Hills State. Mitchell scored 11 points on 4-13 from the field, including a momentum changing pull up three point jumper.
Head coach Bradd Schafer and the Yellow Jacket men will finish up the 2011-2012 regular season in California as they take on Chapman and Cal State-San Marcos. Black Hills State will play Chapman on February 23 at 6:00 p.m. PT, and then come back against Cal State-San Marcos on February 25 at 5 p.m. PT.
For more information on Black Hills State University Athletics visit BHSUAthletics.com
