Titans Rally in Second Half to Secure Overtime Win

Tacoma, Wash. — In a nail-biter that stretched into overtime, Tacoma Community College came out on top with a 78-73 win over Pierce College on Saturday. TCC's relentless defense played a crucial role, racking up 13 steals and forcing 22 turnovers, crucial in clinching the victory.

The Titans got off to a strong start with Amare Brown's layup putting Tacoma ahead early. Dylan Wiggins followed with a 3-pointer, with an assist from Jakoi Lide, to build on the lead. Pierce quickly caught up, though, with Cooper Hartley sinking a 3-pointer to level the score at 5. Denali Hatcher kept Tacoma in the game with steady scoring, highlighted by a jumper that helped TCC stay competitive. Pierce's Mande Wanlemvo, however, was a force late in the half, leading his team to a 29-22 advantage at the break.

In the second half, Tacoma turned up the heat, outscoring Pierce 44-37. Lide ignited TCC's offense with several key layups, including a crucial basket that tied the game at 51-51. Hatcher and Samuel Taylor hit pivotal 3-pointers, maintaining the pressure. Despite Wanlemvo's efforts in the paint, Tacoma managed to tie the game at 66-66 by the end of regulation.

Overtime saw Tacoma pulling away, with Taylor and Lide stepping up. Taylor's layup extended Tacoma's lead, and Hatcher's clutch free throws kept the Titans ahead. Even as Ishe Kanhukamwe hit a late 3-pointer for Pierce, TCC stayed steady, with Hayden Kee sealing the win with two free throws.

Tacoma Top Performers

Denali Hatcher
----------------------
- 15 points
- Perfect 8/8 from the line
- 5 rebounds
- 3 steals

Jakoi Lide
----------------------
- 16 points
- 10 rebounds
- 4 assists

Samuel Taylor
----------------------
- 16 points
- 6/10 field goals
- 3 steals

Pawlose Aschalew
----------------------
- 11 points
- 3/6 from beyond the arc
- 1 block

Up next, the Titans hit the road to take on Highline this Wednesday for the last game of the season.

Go Titans!