The Chattanooga Mocs made history by clinching the NIT Championship, marking their first national title since winning the NCAA Division II championship in 1977. This thrilling final against UC Irvine ended in an 85-84 overtime victory, showcasing determination and skill.
UC Irvine jumped ahead early in the second half, leading 48-40 at one point. However, the Mocs rallied, cutting the lead to just one point several times. A critical moment occurred when Garrison Keeslar hit a three-pointer, bringing the score to 73-70 with just over two minutes left. The game continued with back-and-forth scoring until Honor Huff hit three free throws, putting the Mocs ahead 76-74.
As the game neared its conclusion, UC Irvine tied the game, setting the stage for an intense overtime period. In overtime, both teams exchanged baskets, but Keeslar’s late jump shot ultimately secured the championship for the Mocs. Chattanooga finished the season with a remarkable record of 29-9.
This championship run is not just significant for one game; it reflects a larger trend in college basketball. The Mocs’ performance mirrors recent statistics indicating a rise in competitive parity within the NCAA. For instance, a recent report from the NCAA showed that the number of lower-seeded teams reaching the later stages of tournaments has increased over the past decade. This indicates that in college basketball, any team can surprise and achieve greatness, as the Mocs have demonstrated.
Coach Dan Earl expressed pride in his team, highlighting their unselfish play and dedication. “They are a wonderful young group,” Earl said. “We were fortunate to come out on top against a very, very good UC Irvine team.”
Keeslar stood out in the final, contributing not just in scoring but also excelling at defense and assists, highlighting his importance to the team. Interestingly, he recorded five assists without committing a turnover, a feat that denotes his discipline and skill, often praised in basketball analytics.
The Mocs’ journey gained traction online, capturing the attention of fans on social media platforms. Tweets celebrating their achievements flooded in as the team advanced through the NIT. Popular hashtags like #MocsNation trended, bringing together fans who support their team passionately.
Overall, this championship not only adds to Chattanooga’s basketball legacy but also reaffirms the unpredictability and excitement that college basketball brings. As the Mocs prepare for future seasons, their latest victory sets a strong foundation for continued success.
For more insights on NCAA basketball, you can check out the NCAA’s National Championship History.
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