Amos Alford sank three consecutive free throws with 2.5 seconds left Wednesday night and Minnesota West survived a desperation Ridgewater heave that hit the rim at the buzzer to win at home, 86-85.
With the Warriors ahead 85-83, Alford was fouled as he put up a 3-point attempt that would have put the Bluejays ahead. Alford’s free throws capped a night in which he scored 23 points. Sam Paulson also scored 23 points and added 10 rebounds for Minnesota West, which led by as many as 13 in the second half before Ridgewater rallied to grab the lead in the waning moments.
Three other players scored in double figures for the Jays, who improved to 5-19 overall and 2-10 in South Division play. Jacob Dorian had 14 points for Minnesota West while also chipping in with eight rebounds. London Campbell added 12 points and nine boards, and Steve Ndumbe had 10 points.
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In the women’s game, the Minnesota West Lady Jays overcame a slow start to win going away over Ridgewater, 77-52. Dannyn Peterson had 16 points and seven rebounds as Minnesota West improved to 15-11 overall and 11-2 in South Division play.
Madisyn Huisman added 11 points for the Lady Jays, and Jadyn Lessman had 10 points. Emily Breske contributed team highs of 12 rebounds and four assists.
The Lady Jays, now ranked eighth in the nation, will play at fifth-ranked Rochester on Saturday afternoon for the South Division title.
