HONOLULU, Hawaii - The Prairie Fire men's basketball defeated Whitworth University 65-62 in overtime on Friday evening to conclude their time at the Hoops in Hawaii Classic.

The first half began with an early 7-7 tie score, but the Prairie Fire soon took control and managed to take an eight point lead over the Pirates. Knox remained ahead for the rest of the first half, leading 30-28 going into the half.

Both teams battled back and forth leaving the game very close for most of the second half, with multiple lead changes. The Prairie Fire took a late seven point lead with 5:34 left to play, but the Pirates soon tied the game up.

The second half ended with an even 59 across the board for both teams, pushing the game into overtime. The Prairie Fire came out with the first basket in overtime, but the Pirates soon evened the score back up to 61-61. Knox pushed past Whitworth and stayed ahead, earning the win by the end of overtime.

Chikere Nwosu led the Fire with 13 points. Cole Andrews added 11 points, and Russell Wright followed closely behind with ten points.

"Definitely an exciting one today" said Head Coach Ben Davis. "Whitworth was right on our heels the whole game, and I'm proud of our guys for finishing tonight and giving their all until the last second. It's always a rush to win a close game in overtime, and I think this has been the perfect way for us to finish up our time here in Hawaii."

The Prairie Fire will travel to Lake Forest on January 3rd to resume conference play.