D II IS THE [BASKET]BALLS: THE FINALE

The Winona State Warriors have taken back the Division II basketball crown, after defeating Augusta State 87-76 Saturday.

Most of us back in Winona don't remember how or when we got home last night, but one thing we do recall is the unsettled feeling during the first half.

Buckets were dropping left and right for Augusta, who led by 12 at the break. Winona State watched the margin grow to 16 with 17:25 left to play, finding themselves climbing the same come-from-behind mountain from the two previous wins.

After a series of steals, boards and poor execution on the part of Augusta, the Warriors took the lead to 64-63 with a John Smith three-pointer at the 7:40 mark. Their biggest gap of the night came with 1:27 remaining at 82-70, but the nerves of WSU fans everywhere were sketchy.

We know it takes less than 45 seconds to lose a 7-point lead.

However, Winona State prevailed. Sophomore guard Jonte Flowers, named Most Outstanding Player of the tournament, finished with 30 points, while Smith scored eighteen. Travis Whipple contributed 13 points and Quincy Henderson netted a double-double with 10 points and 10 rebounds.

Way to go, guys!