The Oregon State Beavers pulled off a thrilling 66-65 victory over the UTSA Roadrunners on Saturday night, thanks to a pair of late free throws from guard Ethan Pope.
The Beavers had a comfortable lead for much of the game, but the Roadrunners fought back in the second half to take a 65-64 lead with just over a minute remaining. That’s when Pope stepped up and hit two clutch free throws to give the Beavers the lead for good.
Pope finished the game with 12 points, four rebounds and three assists, but it was his two late free throws that sealed the win for Oregon State. The Beavers were able to hold on for the victory despite missing two key players due to injury.
The win was a big one for Oregon State, who have now won three of their last four games. The Beavers will look to keep the momentum going as they head into their next game against the Arizona Wildcats.
The Roadrunners, meanwhile, will look to bounce back from the heartbreaking loss. UTSA has now lost three of their last four games, and will look to get back on track when they take on the Texas A&M Aggies next week.
It was a thrilling finish to what was an exciting game between two teams looking to make a statement in the NCAA tournament. In the end, it was Pope’s late free throws that made the difference and gave Oregon State the win.