Two free throws with 22 seconds to go and another free throw with eight seconds to go led visiting Hendrix College to a 54-52 win over the LeTourneau University men's basketball team on Friday night.
LeTourneau (0-1) had built a lead as much as 13 in the first half before the visiting Warriors held the YellowJackets without a field goal for nearly five minutes midway through the second half to take a 51-45 lead with 5:06 to play.
Despite the six-point deficit, the YellowJackets scored seven-straight points to take a 52-51 lead with 1:36 to go. In the spurt, seniors Ladaria Brown hit a 3 pointer andJustin Jones hit back-to-back field goals. The Warriors' Colton Primm was fouled on an offensive rebound with 22 seconds to go. The senior from Fayetteville, Arkansas calmly made two free throws for a 53-52 Hendrix lead.
Next, LeTourneau came up short as they went inside for the go-ahead basket. As a result, the YellowJackets needed to foul and sent the Warriors' Hank Aldous to the line with eight seconds to go. The sophomore from Dallas made one of two free throws but it still gave the YellowJackets a chance. The LeTourneau attempt to send the game into overtime came up short.
Ladaria Brown led the YellowJackets with 11 points and Justin Jones nearly had a double double with nine points and 11 rebounds. Hendrix (2-1) was led by Primm, who scored a game-high 14 points. Joining him in double figures was Luke Vance, who also nearly had a double double with 10 points and nine rebounds.
The YellowJackets will have a quick turnaround as they will host Rhodes College on Saturday at 3 p.m. at Solheim Arena. Fans are reminded if they bring a canned good, they will receive a free bag of popcorn while supplies last.