By Larry Arreguin| LPL News Wire| January 24, 2026

YPSILANTI, MI – In a marathon double-overtime battle, the visiting Kent State Golden Flashes edged the Eastern Michigan Eagles, 76–75, on a dramatic finish that came down to clutch free throws in the final moments.

Kent State was led by Rob Whaley Jr. (#2), who poured in a game-high 27 points and calmly knocked down key free throws late in the second overtime to secure the win. Whaley finished 9-of-16 from the field and 9-of-10 at the line, adding four rebounds and two blocks in a complete performance that anchored the Golden Flashes on both ends of the floor.

The Golden Flashes leaned on a balanced effort behind Whaley, with Jahari Williamson (#25) scoring 15 points on 5-of-9 shooting and Delrecco Gillespie (#23) posting a double-double with 13 points and 12 rebounds. Kent State won the battle on the glass, outrebounding EMU 47–42, and capitalized at the free-throw line, converting 22-of-28 attempts in the tightly contested game.

Eastern Michigan answered throughout the night and forced overtime behind strong performances from its backcourt and frontcourt. Mohammad Habhab (#4) led the Eagles with 22 points and 11 rebounds in 47 minutes, while Addison Patterson (#9) added 17 points, six rebounds, and a disruptive defensive effort that included eight steals. Braelon Green (#5) chipped in 11 points, helping EMU stay within striking distance deep into the extra periods.

Despite shooting just 35 percent from the field, the Eagles stayed alive with timely defensive plays and efficient free-throw shooting (15-of-17). Ultimately, Kent State’s poise at the line and edge on the boards proved to be the difference in a game that featured 90 combined minutes of action and multiple lead changes down the stretch.

— LPL News Wire Sports