Marshall, MO - The men's basketball program appeared to have the game wrapped up, but a 15-1 Viking run pushed the game to overtime.

Graceland (13-7, 5-4 HAAC) came out in the second half down 39-32 but quickly made a run at taking the lead back from the Vikings (7-12, 3-5 HAAC). A field goal by Brad Burgus and a three-pointer by Nick Mikle helped GU climb back to take a 43-42 lead with 15:45 remaining in the second half.

The Jackets then began to seize control of the contest, building a 14-point lead with 4:47 left to play. Head coach Jeffrey Hamilton decided that a structured offense should be played for the duration of the contest.

However, the momentum shifted quickly.

"When you have a lead that significant with a few minutes remaining, it's important to milk the clock and limit your opponents' possessions and opportunities to get back into the game," added Hamilton. "However, we got a little stagnant and Missouri Valley converted a few easy buckets to make it close."

The Jackets had an opportunity to ice the game when Chris Henderson was awarded a pair of free throws with 1:11 in regulation. Henderson missed both shots and the Vikings were able to score the final five points to push the game to overtime.

"We have the utmost confidence in Chris' abilities," Hamilton said of the play of his senior guard who went 2-for-10 from the field. "We know the next time he's in that situation, he will convert."

With all the momentum shifted towards the home squad, Hamilton unleashed the offense once again which injected life into the Jackets' spirits.

With the game tied at 73, Graceland found itself with the last possession. Henderson lobbed a shot towards the rim with time expiring. While the initial shot didn't fall, the athletic play of Jamal Lawson allowed the sophomore to collect the rebound and lay the ball in as time expired.

Hamilton concluded, "We found a way to win tonight. Any road conference win is huge and this one is no exception."

Graceland shot an impressive 41.9% from the field and caused 13 Viking turnovers. Despite starting the game on 1-for-8 shooting, Burgus finished the evening with 15 points, 12 rebounds and an assist.

The Jackets will now host the Ravens from Benedictine College on Thursday evening at 7:30 p.m. in Lamoni. The Jackets have won four straight and seven of its last eight contests, outscoring opponents by a 76-69 average margin.