LA GRANDE – The Eastern Oregon men’s won their home opener 73-69 over Carroll College in overtime on Friday.

The first half set the tone for a closely contested matchup, with both teams deadlocked at 34 at halftime. Malachi Afework played a pivotal role in securing the victory, extending the game into overtime with a last-second layup and sealed the win from the free throw line. EOU proved pivotal held Carroll to 36.5% shooting from the field.

Garrett Hawkes led a balanced offensive attack for the Mounties with a 23-point performance, connecting five times from beyond the arc. Brennen Newsom, had a double-double with 16 points and 12 rebounds. Afework impacted both ends of the court with 15 points and three steals, while Preston Chandler finished with seven points.

Andrew Cook scored 18 points for Carroll while Zane Foster added six points, 12 rebounds, and five blocks.