'Wolves Lose by 3 in Thunderdome Thriller

In what was likely one of the all-time classic games in Thunderdome history, the #3 ranked Lakehead Thunderwolves missed a buzzer-beating 3pt shot to tie the game and fell for the first time this season to the #1 ranked and defending CIS champion Carleton Ravens 88-85.

Ben Johnson had a decent look with to tie the game after the 'Wolves forced a 5 second violation with 2.3 seconds left in the game and down 3. Johnson led all scorers in the game with 23 points on 8-14 shooting and added 3 steals.

The first half was a defensive battle that saw the 'Wolves go into the half-time break up 4, 36-32. Carleton shot 1-14 from 3pt range in the first. In the second half, Carleton would heat up as Cole Hobin knocked down consecutive three point shots to give Carleton a lead in the 3rd quarter. In the 4th, Lakehead's offensive rebounding and some timely dribble penetration kept them in the game to the final possession. Carleton was able to stave off the 'Wolves by hitting several key challenged three point shots including daggers by each Manigat, Hinz and Thompson down the stretch. Carleton would shoot an impressive 8-12 from deep in the 2nd half.

Carleton had 5 players in double figures led by Phillip Scrubb who had 17 and 6 assists.

Also scoring for Lakehead was Joseph Jones (18) and Venzal Russell (15).

Coach Morrison on the game:

I thought it was a great game. Both teams capitalized on the few mistakes of the opponent, however I thought some careless turnovers as well as some gambling mistakes on D was the difference in the game. Looking forward we have the confidence to know we can play with this team but also the hunger to remain focused on improving our level of play.