Buccaneers Fall Short in Overtime Clash with Voorhees University
| Final | 1 | 2 | OT | T | |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
|
Virgin Islands (2-3, 1-1) | 31 | 41 | 5 | 77 |
|
Voorhees University (3-8, 1-4) | 30 | 42 | 10 | 82 |
Wilberforce, Ohio, December 15, 2024 – The University of the Virgin Islands (UVI) Buccaneers men's basketball team fell short in an 82-77 clash with Voorhees University. An extra period was required to decide the game's outcome as the teams went into overtime at the Gaston Lewis Arena in Wilberforce, Ohio.
UVI (2-3, 1-1 HBCUAC) struggled early in the game, falling behind 15-5. Despite facing an uphill battle throughout the first half, a crucial free throw by Senior Jalil Langston gave the Buccaneers their first lead just before halftime, with a score of 31-30.
The second half was action-packed, with both teams going on runs that energized their benches, setting the stage for a thrilling ending. The Buccaneers began to pull away from their opponents early in the second half, but a 13-4 run by the Tigers would give them a brief lead. The Buccaneers would regain the lead and seemed to be in control of the game, but with just three seconds left in regulation, a layup by the Tigers would tie the game at 72. A failed half-court heave by the Buccaneers would end regulation and send the teams into the deciding final period.
In overtime, the teams traded baskets, but the Buccaneers ultimately fell short, allowing the Tigers to secure the victory.
Head Coach Kevin Sheppard reflected on the outcome, saying, "Good game, both teams were evenly matched, but we let one slip away. We had the upper hand before overtime, but we just didn't make the winning plays down the stretch. We missed free throws, and they didn't, along with a couple of defensive lapses, and that was the difference in the ball game."
Junior Guard Amayoa'ah Phillips led the way for the Buccaneers offensively, scoring 25 points. Defensively, Phillips recorded a game-high six steals. Langston added 22 points along with eight rebounds and three steals.
After a day of rest, the UVI will return to action on December 16 as they take on Wilberforce University. The Buccaneers will remain at the Gaston Lewis Arena as they face the host school of this edition of the HBCUAC Crossover.
