NAMPA, Idaho — The College of Idaho Yotes fell to Northwest Nazarene University 69-66 in a hard-fought overtime battle during Tuesday night's Mayor's Cup matchup, ending a two-year winning streak over their cross-town rivals. The game saw multiple lead changes and a dramatic finish, with Johnny Radford forcing overtime on a layup assisted by Drew Wyman with just six seconds left in regulation.
Radford led the Yotes with 22 points, shooting 6-of-13 from the field and making 8-of-9 free throws. Samaje Morgan added 16 points and four assists, showing poise and determination throughout the tightly contested matchup. Tyler Robinett contributed nine points, including a clutch three-pointer in overtime that momentarily put the Yotes ahead.
The Yotes and Nighthawks traded leads 15 times, with neither team able to maintain a comfortable margin. College of Idaho's relentless effort kept them in the game despite facing deficits, as they fought back time and again with key defensive stops and timely shooting. Morgan's aggressive drives to the basket and Radford's composure from the free-throw line were crucial in keeping the Yotes within striking distance.
Head coach Colby Blaine commended his team's resilience, saying, "Tough battle tonight. Proud of our team for finding a way to push the game into overtime. We now have the opportunity as a team to regroup and improve for another tough battle on Saturday at The Masters."
Despite the loss, the Yotes' resolve and continuous fight highlighted their tenacity. They will look to even the score when they host Northwest Nazarene for a rematch on Nov. 26 at 7:05 p.m. in Caldwell.
