YORK - York College looked like they were going to get the upset win Thursday night as they built a 12-point lead in the fourth quarter. Unfortunately, the Panthers turned the ball over down the stretch and the Eagles from Oklahoma Wesleyan got hot from beyond the arc. The Eagles mounted a comeback and picked up the 78-69 win in overtime.

With the Panthers down by one with 15 seconds remaining Amaia Diez (SO/Pamplona, Spain) went to the free-throw line. She missed both chances and the Panthers were forced to foul with five seconds remaining in the game. After Danae Goodwin made both of her free throws York had to make a three to force overtime. Diez got the ball from Kiara Pesina (SO/San Antonio, Texas) and heaved it up with a couple of seconds on the clock to force the overtime period.

Oklahoma Wesleyan, who had been cold from the floor for most of the game, came alive late in the fourth quarter and kept firing on all cylinders in overtime. The Eagles scored 23 points in the fourth quarter and then another 23 points in the final five-minute overtime session. York looked to stay in the game but deep three-point baskets in the overtime period by the Eagles were too much to overcome.

Kiara Pesina did all that she could for the Panthers as she was the scoring leading with 20 points, six rebounds, and six assists. Diez was right behind with 18 points and six rebounds. Kendall Fike (SR/Ada, Okla.) was strong as well scoring 11 points and picking up four blocks.

York had a strong first half converting on 50% of their field goals in the first half. The Eagles converted just 26% in the first half and then turned it on in the final two periods of play.

The biggest difference in the game was turnovers. The Panthers turned the ball over 31 times allowing the Eagles to score 25 points.

York travels to McPherson on Saturday for another KCAC competition.