Boxscore

EVANSVILLE, Ind. -- It was only an exhibition game, but the final seconds at Roberts Stadium Saturday night felt more like a battle for a championship.

In a contest that featured 12 ties and eight lead changes, a tip-in by University of Evansville junior Kenny Harris broke the 12th and final tie of the night with 0.4 seconds remaining, giving the Aces a 71-69 exhibition game victory over Division II national power Kentucky Wesleyan.

With the score tied at 69-all, Colt Ryan took a shot from the top of the key with three seconds remaining that hit the right side of the rim.  But Harris somehow managed to get a hand up high enough between two Kentucky Wesleyan defenders to tip the ball off the glass and into the basket.  Wesleyan only had time remaining for a desperation shot that fell well short.

"It felt good," Harris said about the game-winner.  "I've been battling a groin injury, and it hurts every time I jump, but it was worth it that time."

"He made a very smart play," added UE coach Marty Simmons.  "Kenny went out of his area to get the tip-in.  It was a great play.

"Wesleyan is a very good team, at any level.  They had us down at halftime (by five at 36-31).  I thought we were getting some good shots, but just not finishing.  In the second half we hit some shots and got to the free throw line, and fortunately came out ahead.  We still have a lot to work on, but this was good for our players to win a game like this one."

Ryan led the Aces with 15 points and senior guard Kavon Lacey added 14 points on 6-for-6 shooting and six assists.  Harris also got into double figures, with 10.  Anthony Young scored 20 for the Panthers, Cardell McFarland added 18 and Kwan Waller scored 14.

The Aces host Oakland City University in the regular season opener next Saturday at 7:05 CST.