Stars prevail in OT, clinch share of title

Updated: March 23, 2011 9:28AM

Watching his team commit 23 turnovers and hit just 17 of 54 field-goal attempts in regulation, Rich South coach Brian Mays couldn't help but feel a little lucky to force overtime against Bloom Tuesday night.

But overcoming their offensive struggles, the Stars came through in overtime, winning 53-46 to claim at least a share of the Southland conference title.

"That's what we've been talking about all week, this is our conference championship," Mays said. "(The win) at least gives us a tie. We don't want to share. We're not in the sharing mode. That's we want to do, and we've still got to got win Thursday."

With a win over Rich East Thursday night, Rich South (19-5, 8-1) will win the conference title outright, its sixth title overall.

The overtime winner came on the shoulders of junior guard Kiela Garner who, after scoring seven points through three quarters, exploded for 15 points in the fourth quarter alone.

The Stars trailing by seven heading into the fourth, Garner's 15 points (including a 3-for-4 performance from beyond the arc) helped Rich South outscore Bloom 19-12.

With 20 seconds left in the fourth and down two, it was Garner's drive to the hoop that tied the game at 44-all.

"Our coaches told us to come out and really step up the energy," Garner said. "I was playing a little mopey at first. The shots started falling for me, and I got more confident."

In the extra period, the Stars outscored the Blazing Trojans 9-2. Cierra Garrett started the scoring on an offensive rebound on the first possession on what proved to be the game-winner.

Garner finished with a game-high 23 points while Jasmine Collins contributed 10 points.

Bria Gaines had a monster day for Bloom (16-7, 7-2) with 12 points and 17 rebounds. Breanna Perry (13 points) and Angenay Williams (11 points) contributed for the Blazing Trojans.

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