In a game that came down to the wire, St. Joseph’s narrowly edged Texas Tech, 78-77, at the Legends Basketball Tournament in Barclays Arena. A single free throw with 15 seconds remaining proved to be the difference, sealing St. Joe's place in the championship matchup and leaving Texas Tech to regroup for a third-round showdown with Syracuse.
The game was a showcase of elite basketball skills, with both teams delivering highlight-worthy performances. St. Joseph’s Reynolds led all scorers with 26 points, proving unstoppable throughout the night with a combination of sharp shooting and aggressive drives. For Texas Tech, Toppin stood out, leading the Red Raiders with 22 points and keeping his team in contention until the final moments.
From the opening tip, the game was tightly contested, with both teams trading baskets and playing high-intensity defense. St. Joseph’s found their rhythm early, using quick ball movement to create scoring opportunities, while Texas Tech relied on Toppin's dominance in the paint and timely three-point shooting to stay within striking distance.
As the clock ticked into the final minute, tension filled the arena. With 15 seconds left and the score tied at 77, St. Joseph’s drew a foul that sent them to the free-throw line. Knocking down the first free throw gave St. Joe’s the slimmest of leads, but they missed the second, leaving the door open for Texas Tech.
The Red Raiders had one final opportunity to claim the win. In a dramatic final possession, Fleming found himself with the ball and a chance to be the hero. Driving through a tough St. Joe’s defense, he rose for the potential game-winner. But the shot rimmed out, and the Hawks secured the rebound as the clock expired, sending their bench into celebration.
While Texas Tech fell short, their resilience and skill on the court were evident. Toppin's standout performance and Fleming’s effort in the clutch underscored the team’s potential as they prepare to face Syracuse in the third-round matchup.
For St. Joseph’s, the win is a testament to their grit and ability to deliver in high-pressure moments. Reynolds’ scoring prowess and the team’s composure at the free-throw line were the keys to their victory, earning them a shot at the tournament championship against Texas.
This thrilling game epitomized the excitement of the Legends Basketball Tournament, showcasing the competitive spirit and talent of both teams. With matchups like these, fans can look forward to more memorable moments as the tournament unfolds.
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