The defending IBL World Champions Elkhart Express returned to the court tonight with a big overtime win over Grand Rapids.

More than 5,500 people sold out the Northside Gym in Elkhart to see the home opener and to see Grand Rapids' "Big" Center.

Sun Ming Ming of China, standing 7'9" tall, played a solid inside game for Grand Rapids, but it wasn't enough to overcome a late Express comeback.

Down two with 10 seconds remaining in regulation, Elkhart tied the game and forced overtime. From there, the Express took over, winning 111-106 in OT.

The Express are back in action Sunday at 5 when they host Chicago Heights.