Findlay, OH-- The clash between Malone (12-12, 5-11 G-MAC) and Findlay (10-12, 7-7 G-MAC) was a roller coaster ride of basketball excitement, culminating in a narrow victory for Malone with a final score of 74-72.  

The Oilers jumped out to an early 5-0 lead, but Malone had an answer. Simon Blair's jumper, along with two key buckets from Aaron Badibo, propelled the Pioneers into the lead with a score of 8-7. For the remainder of the half, it was a tightly contested game as neither team could build a big lead. Malone edged a slim 39-36 lead heading into the half.

Coming out of halftime both teams continued to battle back and fourth. With 5:11 remaining in the game, Findlay saw its lead extended to nine which was its largest of the game. Things were not looking good for the Pioneers, but they continued to play hard.

Blair started the rally, followed by Jake Bruns drilling a three. Tahleik Walker then hit two clutch free throws to cut the lead to just two. With 47 seconds left, Blair tied the game. After the Oilers missed, Malone had a chance at the final shot.

Blair found an open Caleb Conard who missed his three from the top of the key, but Badibo grabbed the rebound and scored with under a second left. The Pioneers escaped with a big 74-72 road win.

Inside the Box Score

Blair finished with 22 points

Badibo had another double double with 18 points and 11 rebounds. He also made the game winning shot.

Walker had a nice double double of 14 points and 10 rebounds

What's Next
The Pioneers will be back in action next Saturday (Feb. 17) at rival Walsh. The game is slated to tip off at 3:00 p.m.

FOLLOW THE PIONEERS
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