Fayette, Mo. - The Central Methodist Men's Basketball team outscored Culver-Stockton 16-8 in overtime Wednesday night to secure an 89-81 Heart of America Athletic Conference victory inside Puckett Field House.

With the win, the Eagles improve to 17-8 overall and 11-6 in conference play, while the Wildcats fall to 5-20 and 2-15.

The two sides battled evenly throughout regulation. Central held a slim 33-32 edge at halftime, and both teams poured in 40-plus points after the break, with Culver-Stockton edging CMU 41-40 in the second half to force overtime tied at 73-73. In the extra session, the Eagles' defense and free-throw shooting proved decisive, limiting the Wildcats to eight points while converting consistently at the line.

Senior guard Isaiah Reams delivered a game-high 28 points to lead Central, shooting eight-of-15 from the field, three-of-six from three-point range and an efficient nine-of-10 at the free-throw line. Reams added seven rebounds, five assists and two steals in 42 minutes.

Matching Reams with 28 points was Tyson Oghene, who connected on seven-of-18 from the floor and 11-of-12 from the stripe. Oghene also buried three three-pointers, dished out three assists and came away with four steals in a strong all-around performance.

Reigning Heart Defensive Player of the Week Raphael Gay anchored the Eagles inside with 15 points, seven rebounds and three blocked shots, including two rejections in key situations in overtime. Austin Prater pulled down a team-high eight rebounds to go with six points and two blocks.

CMU showcased balance throughout the lineup, finishing with 14 assists and 13 steals as a team.

At the line, the Eagles were particularly sharp, converting 28-of-34 free throws (82.4 percent), including several key attempts in overtime. Central also held a 44-41 rebounding advantage and forced 14 Culver-Stockton turnovers.

The Eagles remain at home to host Grand View University Saturday, Feb. 14 at 4:00 p.m. inside Puckett Field House. 

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