WASHINGTON -- American University moved into sole possession of first place in the Patriot League, defeating Navy 67-66 tonight in overtime in Bender Arena. The Eagles bounced back from a defeat at Holy Cross on Saturday to top the Midshipmen behind an enthusiastic crowd and in front of a Comcast SportsNet television audience.
American (11-9, 5-2 PL) and Navy (9-13, 4-3 PL) engaged in an extremely close game, with neither team holding a lead of more than five points. The first half included three ties and six lead changes, and the Eagles held a two point edge at intermission. The intensity picked up in the second half as the teams traded baskets. One of Glenn Stokes' six three-pointers gave American a 53-51 lead with 3:09 remaining. Neither team scored until two free throws by Stokes gave American a four point edge with only 28 seconds remaining. Navy's Jehiel Lewis made a basket and was fouled with 17 seconds left, however he missed the free throw. Scott Long rebounded and made a lay-up to force overtime.
In the extra stanza, Navy jumped out to lead after a Jeff Charles three-pointer. Stokes answered with a three-pointer of his own to knot the game at 58. After another Long lay-up, Stokes continued his hot streak draining another three as the Eagles reclaimed the lead. A Miles lay-up with 1:09 remaining gave American a 63-62 lead that they would not relinquish. A free throw by Keith Gray iced the game as the Eagles led 67-63 with only six seconds left.
Stokes led all scores with 22 points. All six of his made field goals came from behind the three-point line. Stokes and teammate Andres Rodriguez made six steals each. Miles posted a double-double with 17 points and a career high 14 rebounds. Patrick Doctor scored 10 points and grabbed three rebounds. In the game, Doctor recorded his 600th rebound of his career.
Long led the Midshipmen with 15 points and Lewis scored 13.
American returns to action on Saturday, Feb. 2 at 1:00 p.m. against Colgate in Bender Arena. The Eagles then take to the road for three games against Army, Lafayette and Bucknell.
