OWENSBORO, KY. - In a compelling showdown at the Owensboro Sportscenter on February 24, the Kentucky Wesleyan College men's basketball team delivered a remarkable performance to secure an 86-74 win against the Lake Erie Storm. The Great Midwest basketball contest saw the Panthers enhance their season record to 21-6, including a 15-4 record in the G-MAC conference. Wesleyan rose to occasion by shooting 53% from the field and 58% (14-24) from the perimeter. 

The game kicked off with Lake Erie nabbing the early lead, but Kentucky Wesleyan soon found their rhythm, concluding the first period ahead at 32-25.  The Panthers adjusted to pressure defense in the final five minutes of the first half. Leading 24-23 the Panthers ended the half connecting from the perimeter as Kennedy Miles and Edward Jones Jr. hit threes in the final four minutes of the half. 

Miles demonstrated commendable playmaking skills, dishing out a team-high of seven assists while scoring 15 points. On the defensive end, Alex Gray secured nine rebounds, sharing the spotlight with Quentin Toles and Gray each snagging a steal. Every time the Panthers tried to pull away, the Storm rushed back into a one possession game. The Panthers showcased a robust defense throughout the game, making significant stops that played a pivotal role in maintaining their lead. Eventually the LEC possession resulted in missed shots late in the contest. 

A key moment erupted when tied at 67, Logan McIntire broke the deadlock with a three-pointer, followed by crucial plays that widened the gap against the Storm. Toles scored five consecutive points while Jones' thunderous dunk late in the game helped extend the lead, sealing the win for the Panthers. Jones' dunk ended a 8-0 run that lasted just 72 seconds. 

Toles was spectacular, leading the scoring with 22 points and a notable six three-pointers. Current G-MAC Player of the Week, Logan McIntire also added a critical 19 points to the team's total, among them crucial shots that helped pivot the game's momentum in favor of the Panthers. 

The upcoming matchup will see the Panthers facing off against Thomas More on Saturday in Crestview Hills, KY. Tip-off is scheduled for 2PM CT. 

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