Despite a hostile crowd, the Lancers defeated Parkway South in a 56-52 overtime battle. Backed by the two of the Suburban West’s top scorers, the Patriots took a 16-12 lead at the end of the first quarter.
Still, Lafayette answered back, cutting the lead to 31-24 at the half.
By the start of the second , the game’s tempo changed. The Lancers continued their run through the final period of play, tying the score at 47-47 with 36.3 seconds left in regulation. South ran the clock down to 8.6 seconds before losing possession on a costly turnover.
Lafayatte held the ball and an opportunity for a go-ahead basket, but senior Mike Messer’s failed drive attempt gave way to overtime. Back-to-back baskets by South put them up by five early in OT before the Lancers would take 53-52 lead on a layup by sophomore Mike Messer.
Lafayette would hold that lead and go on upset the Conference’s top team. Mike Messer led all scorers with 30 points as the Lancers went 26-29 from the free throw line.
The win extended the team’s win streak to six games as it prepares for the postseason. They will be in action next on Feb. 19 against Mehlville at home.
