TIFFIN, Ohio -- The Heidelberg University Men's Basketball team trailed behind the No. 21 Otterbein Cardinals all afternoon, but fell just short in an 85-83 decision on Saturday at Seiberling Gymnasium. Heidelberg falls to 11-10 (5-7 OAC), Otterbein moves to 18-3 (10-2 OAC).

Markell Johnson-Nichols had a season-high 25 points to go along with nine boards -- but a potential game-tying layup in the final seconds hung on the rim and fell off, helping the Cardinals escape with the victory.  Marcos Vazquez had 17 points and Trey Killens added 16.

Otterbein built its lead early on in the first half, shooting an efficient 59% from the floor. Heidelberg answered with balanced scoring and strong play in the paint, shooting 48%. Despite trailing at the break 53-41, going into the second half the team showed resilience. 

Near the midway point of the second half, Otterbein led by 15 points. Heidelberg began to chip away, going on an extended run that cut the deficit down to one with 5:51 left. The run started with a three-point play and ended with a 3-pointer, both from Vazquez. Otterbein responded offensively and gathered momentum.

Down five with 90 seconds left, Johnson-Nichols hit a free throw and HU got a stop on the other end. With under a minute, Killens brought HU to within two with a layup in traffic. Needing another stop, HU forced a miss and Jarveil Gainey grabbed the rebound. Johnson-Nichols drove into the lane in the final seconds, but help-defense arrived in the nick of time for the Cardinals, forcing the 'Berg junior to adjust his shot midair. Impressively, he still nearly hit it, but it rolled off to the left -- effectively ending the game. 

Otterbein went to the line just twice in the second half, settling for 3-point shots, but unlike the first half, they were unable to convert. 

The Student Princes are back in action Wednesday, Feb. 11 on the road at No. 11 Mount Union. The game is slated for 7 p.m.