Wichita Falls, Texas (Jan. 18, 2012) ¬¬— Cameron’s men’s basketball team dropped a heartbreaker in Wichita Falls Wednesday, falling to Midwestern State, 82-80, on a last second tip-in.

Cameron (10-4, 7-2) battled throughout the second half, trading off control of the lead more than five times, before the Mustangs took the lead for good at the five-minute mark. Cameron was able to tie the game up at 80 with less than a minute to go, but in the final seven seconds, the Mustangs (14-1, 7-1) found a little home court magic in the way of a buzzer-beating tip-in.

The teams played neck and neck throughout the contest, which included eight ties and 16 lead changes. After an even start, Midwestern came out on top in the first half, 32-21, which helped to set up the dramatic ending. Cameron fought hard during the game, using a strong defense to hold the Mustangs to 44 percent shooting, while posting a line of 53 percent.

“You know, we missed free throws and we gave up too many offensive rebounds,” said Head Coach Wade Alexander. “We defended well, but when you give up 23 offensive rebounds, they get a lot of second chances. That’s a tough time against a good team. We shot the ball well, can’t complain about that. We’ve got to do a better job at rebounding, bottom line. “

Senior Milton Garner, the reigning Lone Star Conference Offensive POW, led the team in scoring with 28 points, but fouled out with 2:32 left in the game. Sophomore Desmond Henry was second in scoring with 20 points. Senior Thomas Razor and junior Andrew Thomas added 13 points each.

“We executed everything well, just didn’t rebound and didn’t hit free throws,” the coach said. “That’s two areas that take mental toughness and physical toughness. First half, we got down and didn’t go get it. But now, we know what we need to do. Now, we just need to go do it Saturday.”

Cameron will get an early chance to split with the Mustangs at 4 p.m. Saturday in the Aggie Gym.