By Matt Bos, NAIA Media Coordinator

POINT LOOKOUT, Mo. – (Box Score) – A late 9-0 run proved to be the difference as No. 2 Embry-Riddle (Fla.) got past unseeded Southern Oregon in the second quarterfinal contest played today at the 2015 NAIA Division II Men’s Basketball National Championship. This year’s event is being played at the Keeter Gymnasium.

Cesar Pastrana put down a jumper that broke a 60-60 tie and ignite a 9-0 run that put the Embry-Riddle up for good, 69-60, with four minutes left. When the final horn sounded, the Eagles outscored Southern Oregon 19-9 over the final eight minutes to secure a spot in Monday’s semifinal.

Embry-Riddle shot 52% for the game and was led by Pastrana, who played to his advantage inside, with 26 points. The 6’8” senior went 9-for-13 from the field and made all eight of his free throw attempts. Pastrana also pulled down seven boards.

The first half saw both teams battle for control in a back and forth opening 20 minutes that featured two ties and 10 lead changes. At its end, it was Embry-Riddle that had a slight 38-36 advantage.

Nothing was decided early in the second half as both teams continued to trade baskets, until, at the eight minute mark, Embry-Riddle began its decisive run. The Eagles defense limited Southern Oregon to just two field goals during the stretch run.

Joining Pastrana in double figures for Embry-Riddle were DeForest Carter and Dalton Barnes, who both scored 14 points. Daniel Kiesling added 10. The Eagles dominated the paint, holding the advantage in rebounds (30-20), including 13 on the offensive end.

Southern Oregon, the last unseeded team still standing at the championship coming into today, was led by Eric Thompson with 26 points, which included five three-pointers. Ben DeSaulnier scored 12, despite shooting just 2-for-8 from the field. The Raiders end the season with a 26-10 record.

Embry-Riddle improves its best-ever record to 35-1 and will play No. 3 Cornerstone (Mich.) in the 8pm game for Monday’s semifinal. The Eagles will be playing in their second ever semifinal in their 15th and final appearance at the NAIA Division II Championship.