Late game heroics push Mio past Oscoda in overtime

When it comes to free throw shooting, Drew Hess might be the best in Northern Michigan history.

In 2015 as a 12 year old Hess made his way through the Elks free throw competition and made it through National’s winning the National Championship.

Fast-forward to Friday night at Oscoda. With 0.6 seconds left Mio down by 53-52 their decorated free throw shooter at the line the freshman calmly knocked down both free throws to secure the 54-53 victory for the Thunderbolts.

The entire game in regulation Mio was leading as they started early taking a 13-11 after the first quarter.

The second quarter saw the Thunderbolts expand their lead to 24-19 at the half although Hess had a slow start with just two first half points.

“At halftime I was just thinking about my form, and getting the ball to fall.”

The third quarter Hess got going as he scored all but two third quarter points and Mio expanded their lead to 38-31 at the end of the third.

The Owls wouldn’t go down without a fight though. In the fourth quarter they came firing back led by Sophomore Brayden Mallak. With the game tied 46-46 with 10 seconds left Hess drove to the basket but was stripped of the ball sending the game to overtime.

In overtime Oscoda clinging to a one point 53-52 lead with 10 seconds remaining Mio River Waisanen shot a three and missed seemingly crushing the Thunderbolts chance at a victory but with no one able to grab the ball it landed in the back of the pack to none other than Drew Hess. He took the ball and went up with the shot and was fouled where he knocked down both free throws for the win 54-53.

Mio was led by Hess with 27 points and Brendan DeFlorio with 9. Oscoda was led by both Mallak and Grant Huebel with 17 points.

Mio (10-4) looks to build off the win as they take on Rogers City at home Tuesday. Oscoda (11-4) must bounce back fast as they take on undefeated Hillman Tuesday and then head to rival Alcona Friday.