Chargers win first round of NJCAA National Tournament in Kansas
The dream continues as the Chargers stun #7 nationally ranked Butler 88-86 in overtime to advance to the sweet sixteen in the NJCAA D1 National Championship Basketball Tournament in Hutchinson, Kansas.
GHC knew going in that the Grizzlies of Butler were a very talented team, especially on the boards and in the paint. The Chargers’ high-pressure defense held the Grizzlies in check early as the Chargers led at the half 36-35. However, Chargers leading scorer Ty Toney was in foul trouble with 3 fouls going into the second half. Just 3:00 minutes into the second half Toney got his fourth foul.
Montrel Goldstone stepped up in Second half hitting a three pointer and had a steal and an assist for a Ta'Quan Givens three pointer to give the Chargers a 41-37 lead.
The second half was a back and fourth affair with 13 lead changes.
With 4:37 remaining, Donovan Harris took a pass down low in the paint and had a monstrous dunk to give GHC a 65-62 lead.
The Chargers extended their lead to 72-68 on Terrance Thompson' three pointer from the corner. The Grizzlies fought back and tied the game at 74 with 52 seconds left in regulation. Ty Toney hit a fade shot in the lane to give GHC a two point lead with 27 seconds to go, but once again Butler attacked the basket, scoring 2 to tie the game at 76.
The Chargers had the last shot at the buzzer but it didn't fall sending the game to overtime tied at 76.
In overtime the Grizzlies got out of the gate quick taking a four point lead, however the defensive effort by the Chargers resulted in two quick turnovers by the Grizziles. With the game tied at 86 and 26 seconds left in overtime the Chargers had the final shot.
GHC got the ball down low to Donavan Harris and he was fouled with 2.6 seconds left. Harris made both foul shots taking a 88-86 lead. Butler had a Hail Mary shot from half to court that fell short and the dream continues for the Chargers with a 88-86 win.
The Chargers had four players in double digits. Sophomore Ty Toney once again was stellar for the Chargers leading all scorers with 31 points in only 26 minutes of playing time due to foul trouble. Toney was 14/17 from the field. Sophomores Donovan Harris and Montrel Goldston each had 13 points. Once again sophomore Terrance Thompson had a double with 11 points and 10 rebounds coming off the bench.
The Chargers get back in action Wednesday, March 18, at 7:00 (EST) as they take on # 3 nationally ranked Southern Idaho College.
