Jones scores 22, C. Arkansas clips Sam Houston State, 91-87

Mar 7, 2019, 03:18 am

HUNTSVILLE, Texas -- DeAndre Jones made six straight free throws along with a steal and a key rebound in the final 24 seconds to help Central Arkansas hold off Sam Houston State 91-87 in an upset Wednesday night.

Jones finished with 22 points for Central Arkansas (12-18, 7-10 Southland Conference), draining three 3-pointers and going a perfect 11 of 11 at the free throw line. He also had nine assists and two steals as Central Arkansas handed Sam Houston State just its second home loss this season.

The Bearkats entered the game with one loss since December 31 and were riding a three-game win streak. They remain atop the Southland standings. Zach Nutall scored 18 to lead Sam Houston State (20-10, 15-2) and Josh Delaney added 17.

The game saw eight lead changes and four ties and Central Arkansas held a one-point lead with just under a minute to go.

Jones snatched the rebound of a potential go-ahead 3-pointer by SHSU's Delaney and was fouled. He made both with 24 seconds left. Then he stole the ball from Delaney and was fouled again with 10 seconds left. Again, he made both for a five-point lead.

After a Delaney 3-pointer cut the gap to 89-87, Jones made two more free throws as the Bears held on.