SLIPPERY ROCK, Pa. — The Golden Eagles (11-12, 6-9 PSAC) battled hard but fell just short against Slippery Rock (15-8, 8-7 PSAC) in a nail-biting 80-78 finish at Morrow Field House on Wednesday night.
From the start, Clarion set the defensive tone, pressuring The Rock into eight early turnovers.
Justice Easter sparked the defense with an early steal, while
Jeremy Thomas II powered through the paint with a strong six-point showing, including a dynamic dunk.
The Golden Eagles also found their rhythm from downtown, with
Kendon Peebles and
Trey Nelson sinking key 3-pointers to keep the game within reach. Bench contributions were solid, with 16 points coming from the reserves, countering Slippery Rock's fast-paced transitions.
By halftime, Clarion's solid offensive drive wasn't enough to overtake Slippery Rock's lead, trailing 42-35.
The Golden Eagles showed true grit in the second half, chipping away at the deficit with sharp shooting and tight defense. Peebles and Nelson were instrumental, each draining timely threes that brought Clarion back into contention. The defense stepped up, forcing turnovers that led to crucial fast-break points and kept the game tight.
In the final minutes, Clarion edged ahead with clutch free throws from
Aydan Cunningham, but a late three-pointer by Slippery Rock's Brady Mayo shifted the tide, sealing the game at 80-78.
Trey Nelson was outstanding, posting 20 points, hitting 9 of 12 from the field, and dishing out 10 assists while snagging seven steals.
Aydan Cunningham added 17 points on 6 of 11 shooting, including three treys, and grabbed six boards.
Kendon Peebles chipped in with 14 points, hitting four of five from beyond the arc.
Justice Easter contributed with two steals and two assists.
