CAMDEN MBB WIN DOUBLE-OT THRILLER @ BERGEN

Blackwood, NJ -- Cougars win thriller, improve to 13-8 overall

CCC MBB (13-8) delivered a statement performance, outlasting Bergen Community College (12-11) in a thrilling double-overtime battle to secure its second consecutive road victory.

In a game that tested both teams' endurance and composure, Camden showed resilience from start to finish, responding to every Bergen surge with timely stops and clutch baskets. The Cougars' ability to stay poised under pressure proved to be the difference in a contest that remained up for grabs deep into the second overtime.

Following a 10-point win for Camden in early December, Bergen came into this matchup with retribution at the forefront. After an even 1H in which both teams were giving their all, it was Camden who went into halftime with a slim, five-point advantage, 33-28.

However, although still close, the tide shifted in the 2H to the home team with Bergen scoring 51 total points to the Cougars 46, another slim five-point margin. With the end of regulation deadlocked at 79 – overtime was eminent.

With Camden & Bergen both trading baskets, the first overtime mirrored the intensity of the opening 40 minutes. It was clear, whoever could generate enough stops in this contest would prevail.

When the game extended to a second overtime, Camden elevated their play on both ends of the ball. They scored 16 total points to Bergen's 11 and came up with key defensive possessions, eventually creating just enough separation to put the game away, 102-97.

Three starters scored in double figures for Coach Abbattista with Istavan Norwood (Dover, DE) registering 22 points (7-9, 8-9 FT), 5 rebounds and 3 assists while Kai Gatson (New Castle, DE) added 21 points on 7-15 shooting (3-5 from distance). Zha'Mere Crawford (Wilmington, DE) finished with 19 points (6-12, 7-12 FT), 7 rebounds, 4 assists, 3 steals and a blocked shot.

The reserves were also stellar in this one as Cam Rembert (Philadelphia, PA), Mikey Campbell (Fayetteville, NC) and Su Alleyne (Chester, PA) combined for 31 points 16 rebounds, 5 assists & 3 blocked shots.

With the victory, Camden County continues to compete well away from home and gain confidence, utilizing balanced contributions and a next-man-up mentality to overcome adversity.

Camden will look to carry this momentum into it's next matchup as it continues conference play, aiming to build on the toughness and togetherness displayed in the double-overtime triumph over Bergen.

The Cougars (13-8) will return home tonight, January 2^nd as they search for their third victory in a row against Sussex CC.

For full stats, upcoming games and player highlights, please visit the Camden County College athletics page.