Bobcats Complete 15-Point Fourth Quarter Rally to Quiet Sound in OT, 81-77

BUFFALO, NY — Facing a double-digit deficit entering the fourth quarter, the Bryant & Stratton Buffalo women's basketball team showcased resilience and composure, storming back late to force overtime before earning an 81–77 victory over Five Towns College in a thrilling contest.

Trailing 62–47 early in the fourth quarter, Buffalo flipped the momentum with defensive intensity and timely shot-making. Chelsea Johnson ignited the comeback with strong finishes in the paint, while Jordyn Cooper-Best and Iyanna King orchestrated the offense to chip away at the deficit possession by possession.

Buffalo held Five Towns scoreless from the field for nearly four minutes during a decisive stretch, cutting the lead to single digits after a De'Amani Davis three-pointer and a layup from Johnson. Moments later, Deziree Mount knocked down a clutch three to make it a two-point game, setting the stage for a dramatic finish.

With just over three minutes remaining, Cooper-Best tied the game at 67–67, and despite late free throws from Five Towns, the Bobcats responded. Zyaire Hartfield calmly knocked down two free throws with 43 seconds remaining to even the score at 69–69. After Five Towns briefly reclaimed the lead, Cooper-Best attacked the rim to tie the contest again at 71–71 with 26 seconds left, forcing overtime.

Buffalo's efficiency proved pivotal throughout the contest. The Bobcats shot 43.9 percent from the field and 44.4 percent from three-point range, compared to Five Towns' 32.9 percent shooting night. Bryant & Stratton also excelled at the free-throw line, converting 15-of-17 attempts (88.2%), while dishing out 23 assists on 29 made field goals. Buffalo generated 18 fastbreak points and received 17 points off the bench, helping counter Five Towns' rebounding edge.

In the extra period, Buffalo took control early. Johnson opened overtime with a strong finish, and the Bobcats' defense forced key turnovers while capitalizing at the free-throw line down the stretch to secure the four-point win in a game that featured seven ties and six lead changes.

Johnson led all scorers with 22 points and 14 rebounds, delivering a dominant performance inside. Cooper-Best recorded a triple-double with 12 points, 11 rebounds, and 10 assists, while King added 14 points and eight assists. Davis provided a crucial spark off the bench, finishing with nine points, including the momentum-shifting three in the fourth quarter.

Bryant & Stratton Buffalo erased a 15-point fourth-quarter deficit, showcasing poise, balance, and efficiency to complete the comeback and earn the overtime victory.