Four Vikings scoring in double figures came up just short as Seminole State won 86-74 over the Vikings in overtime on Monday, Dec. 8.
It was a back and forth contest through much of the game. Seminole State grabbed the early 5-2 lead as the Vikings couldn't convert on field goal opportunities in the opening few minutes of the game. Julian Greer broke the drought with a three pointer to tie things at 5-5 2:30 into the game. Neither team led by more than a handful of points. The Vikings broke the game open by staying aggressive and making the most of their opportunities at the free throw line. Caleb Alcineus capped a 15-4 run, drawing a foul on a made layup and making the ensuing free throw and later adding a deep corner three for a 32-20 lead at the 8:00 minute mark of the first half.
Seminole State cut it to single digits on a 7-3 scoring run, but the Vikings kept their foot on the gas, closing the first half strong led by baskets from Davion Hampton, Jordan Williams and a corner three late in the first half by Justin Oriakhi to take a 44-38 lead into the locker room for halftime.
In the second half, a 13-0 run from Seminole State in the first four minutes of the half put the Vikings in a 51-44 deficit, but they didn't waver. Gelonni Ervin sank a pair of free throws and Dupree Fletcher Jr answered with a layup and in two possessions, the Vikings drew within three; 51-48. Seminole State answered with a basket, but the Vikings scored eight of the next 11 points, tying the game at 58 on a tough basket by Judah Peña to tie things at 58. Both teams traded stops and baskets, but Grayson grabbed a three point lead on scores from Ervin and Hampton to lead 63-60. After Seminole tied it at 63, Fletcher Jr sank two huge free throws for a 65-63 lead with 1:25 left. Seminole State again tied it up, but Ervin went 1-2 at the line for a one point lead. After the Vikings forced a defensive stop, Fletcher Jr split his free throws, but Seminole State sent the game into overtime with a basket with two seconds remaining in regulation.
In overtime, the Vikings were outscored 19-7 to suffer a heartbreaking loss. Fletcher Jr led the way with 21 points and seven assists. Off the bench, Ervin (15 points and nine rebounds) and Hampton (13 points) also had great nights offensively. Alcineus added 12 points as well, while Greer chipped in eight rebounds.
The Vikings return home for a pair of games to close out 2025. First up is Murray State on Thursday, Dec. 11. Tip-off is set for 6pm.