By Horace Billings

Salisbury Post

Catawba dropped a 76-75 decision to Clayton State (Ga.) when it missed two free throws Saturday in the fading seconds in the final round of the annual Walt Baker Classic at Goodman Gym.

The Indians, who fought from behind most of the way, grabbed a 75-73 lead on a four-point play by freshman Antonio Houston with 1:55 remaining.

The teams swapped the basketball until the Indians gained control in the fading seconds.

Houston was fouled with 16 seconds remaining and received two free throws. The sharp-shooter, who has been a big scorer for the Indians this season, missed both foul shots.

Clayton State got the rebound after the second miss and moved the basketball down court in a hurry. John Beugnot fired in a 3-pointer with three seconds left, and the Lakers had their second straight win in the Classic.

“It was a tough way to lose,” Catawba coach Jim Baker said. “We had a chance to win. Our team played harder and and better than any time this season. If we keep playing this way, we are going to win some games.”

Houston led the Indians with 23 points on 7-of-11 shooting, including four 3-pointers. Chris Wooldridge followed with 18, Jason Diggs fired in 12, and Brian Graves had 10.

Catawba (1-4) dropped both of its games in the event. Clayton State improved to 4-0 and claimed the Classic title by winning both of its games.

Lenoir-Rhyne bounced back from its loss to Clayton State on Friday with a 64-53 victory against Armstrong Atlantic (Ga.).