MARIETTA, Ga. — The RV Life University men's basketball team escaped with a win against Dalton State Saturday afternoon, scoring a go-ahead basket with just five seconds on the clock to improve to 11-3 on the year.

In the first half, the Running Eagles struggled from the field shooting 39% to begin the contest as both teams struggled to create any separation. Just as either team began to gain momentum, timely baskets were scored as the teams produced 11 lead changes in the first half alone. Headed to the break, the Roadrunner maintained a slim 37-36 lead.

In the second half, Dalton State initially grew their lead to five, 45-40, before Life U, fueled by quick burst of offense from Elias Ramirez clawed the Running Eagles back into a 47-47 scoreline.

Back-and-forth midway through the half the teams continued to trade blows as each Life U basket was answered with a response. The Running Eagles managed to pull ahead in the final minutes as a Joshua Ward jumper fell through with 2:30 to go, but both teams went cold after that as the finals minutes of play was dominated by defense.

Leading 75-72, the Running Eagles held Dalton State scoreless for two possessions before an untimely turnover with less than a minute to play was converted provide Dalton a 76-75 lead.

The Running Eagles then called a timeout and drew up a play to set Dara Olonade up for the game-winning basket. The

Once the Running Eagles took the lead with a Popovich basket from behind the arc, they never trailed again, controlling the final six and a half minutes by growing the lead to as many eight before closing the contest with a 85-80 win.

As a team, the Running Eagles saw four individuals record more than ten points with Olonade matching a team-high 14, none of which as important as the final basket with less than 10 seconds to play.

Up next, the Running Eagles will look to wrap up their calendar year with a SSAC matchup against Thomas University set for 2 pm, December 30th, in the Eagles' Nest.