MOBILE, Ala. (AP) — Georgi Boyanov knocked down a 3-pointer to give South Alabama the lead in overtime and the Jaguars held Florida International scoreless for almost four minutes of the extra period to earn a 69-64 victory in the first round of the Roundball Classic Friday night.
Josh Ajayi grabbed an offensive rebound and laid it in to get South Alabama even with six seconds left in regulation and force overtime.
The Panthers held an eight-point lead with six minutes left in regulation but were held scoreless for a three-minute stretch while South Alabama clawed its way back.
Don MuepoKelly’s layup got the Jaguars within three, 53-50 with 3:40 left.
Ajayi finished with a career-high 27 points to lead South Alabama.
Eric Nottage scored 18 points to lead Florida International.
Florida International faces Jacksonville Saturday while the host Jaguars face Youngstown State. The tournament wraps up Sunday.
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