Despite a sellout home crowd, the Kent State men’s basketball team dropped its matchup against the No. 25 Miami Redhawks on Tuesday by a final of 107-101. The Flashes fought hard throughout the night to force the game into overtime in the rowdy M.A.C. Center.

With the loss, KSU drops to 14-5 (4-2), and ends its two game homestand with a 1-1 record. Graduate center Rob Whaley Jr. led the Flashes in scoring with 27 points as well as grabbing 14 rebounds, propelling his squad back into the game.

Miami continues its undefeated season improving to a staggering 20-0 (8-0). The RedHawks did not trail in the matchup until under nine minutes remaining and were led in scoring by senior guard Peter Suder with 27 points. Looking to keep their impressive season rolling, Miami will welcome UMass 12-8 (3-5) to Oxford.

The Redhawks defense suffocated the Flashes in the first half of play causing 14 turnovers and allowing only 34 points. KSU could only manage  27.3% from three in the first, paving the way for  Whaley Jr. to score 12 points, leading his team. 

While the first half was dominated by the RedHawks, a rejuvenated KSU offense allowed for a tight second half. Miami’s defense got into foul trouble early in the second allowing the Flashes to climb out of a 14 point half-time deficit in the loss. Senior forward Delrecco Gillespie also got into foul trouble early in the second, but finished strong putting up 17 points and eight rebounds. 

The Flashes will hit the road Saturday for an afternoon matchup against Eastern Michigan 9-10 (3-4). The Eagles currently sit eighth in the Mid-American Conference and will look to defend their homecourt in a matchup where the Flashes will be favored.

Josh Szeremet is a reporter. Contact him at [email protected].