MARTIN, Tenn. (AP) — Mike Liabo scored 21 points and Benzor Simmons added 18 as Tennessee-Martin came from behind to beat Eastern Kentucky 78-70 on Thursday night, clinching a spot in the Ohio Valley Conference tournament.
The Skyhawks (11-19, 6-11) trailed 54-39 with 13:46 to play before going on a 34-8 run to take a 73-62 lead with 1:44 to go. Simmons scored all 18 of his points during that stretch.
The Colonels (15-14, 9-8) shot just 20 percent from the floor (2 of 10) during the stretch. Spencer Perrin scored 15 points, Joshua Jones added 14 and Josh Daniel 12 for Eastern Kentucky.
Reuben Clayton had 16 points and Terence Smith added 15 for Tennessee-Martin, which shot 60.9 percent from the field (14 of 23) in the second half — the start of which was delayed for approximately 45 minutes due to a tornado warning.
Another 45-minute delay occurred with 12:55 left to play.
