BEAVER FALLS, PA- In the birthplace of college basketball, the Patriots captured their second victory, claiming the title of Coaches vs. Cancer Tip-Off Classic Champions. The Patriots defeated host school Geneva College in a dramatic come from behind victory, 79-76!
After taking the lead from the Patriots six minutes into the game, the host school protected their limited lead with everything they had. The Patriots relentlessly fought to gain control of the half, forcing 11 turnovers and grabbing six steals, but could not get more than a one point advantage before giving up the lead again. As the teams headed to their locker rooms for halftime, the scoreboard showed the advantage to the Golden Tornados, 38-37.
As the second half got under way, it appeared the Tornados would refuse to let up, fending off the Patriots until the 12:57 mark. From that moment both teams wrestled for the edge, with the lead changing hands five times and tying twice. With two minutes left on the clock the Tornados were up by four before a sweetly timed three-pointer from Demitrius Muse put the Patriots just one point behind. Forty- seconds later, Lance Harris grabbed a defensive board before going down the lane to make a layup, putting the Patriots up by one, 77-76, with 00:53 left in the game. The signature Patriots defense became present as Tony Hazzard forced a turnover, stealing the ball from the Tornados and giving it to Harris for another layup to add to the Patriots lead with 00:17 left. Pressing their defense, the Patriots refused an opportunity for the Tornados to shoot and captured the game, 79-76!
After the game, Head Coach Jon Mack has this to say about the tournament weekend, "Despite our consecutive defensive woes in transition, our guys found a way to get stops when it mattered and execute on the offensive end down the stretch. Our bench was the difference maker this week as we got consistent balance on the offensive end. Our young men played with resilience this weekend and I am happy they were able to experience some early success. With that said I look forward to practice and getting better defensively."
Lance Harris recorded a career best 27 points along with seven rebounds and three assists. Harris was named Tournament MVP.
Jean LeBlanc left an impression with 16 points, five rebounds and three steals. LeBlanc was named to the All-Tournament Team.
Freshman Demitrius Muse scored 17 points with six rebounds and two assists.
It seemed oddly appropriate that such a new team would mark the first leg of a long season at Geneva College. The first college basketball game was organized in 1892 as an intramural game. One year later, on April 8, 1893, Geneva competed against New Brighton YMCA in the first collegiate game, using beach baskets as goals. Geneva won the game, 3-0!
The men return to The Pit for their home opener in the Holiday Inn Express Tip-Off Classic, Thursday, November 21. The Patriots start the three day classic against Lincoln Christian University at 8 pm!
Go Patriots!
