ALBANY, N.Y. — In a thrilling contest, UMBC triumphed over Albany with a final score of 92-87 after overtime on Thursday evening.

Bryce Johnson was the standout performer, contributing significantly with 23 points, while Marcus Banks Jr. was pivotal in the game’s closing moments. Banks executed two crucial free throws with just 11 seconds remaining in regulation, equalizing the score at 79. He then propelled the Retrievers ahead by scoring another pair of free throws, bringing the score to 91-81 and helping UMBC secure the victory by finishing an impressive 31 out of 44 from the charity stripe.

Johnson posted an efficient shooting performance, hitting 6 of 10 from the field, including 2 of 4 from beyond the arc, and also sank 9 of 13 free throws. Banks played a notable role as well, scoring 21 points with a shooting line of 6 for 11 from the field and a perfect 7 for 7 from the free-throw line along with grabbing six rebounds and making three steals. Meanwhile, Anthony Valentine also made an impact, finishing the game with 18 points, hitting 6 of 11 from the field, including 1 for 3 from three-point territory, and was flawless at the line, going 5 for 5.

On the opposing side, Amar’e Marshall led the Great Danes with a stellar 25 points. Byron Joshua added 17 points to the mix, followed by Justin Neely who chipped in with 12 points.

Both teams are set to take the court again on Saturday, with UMBC slated to visit Vermont, while Albany is preparing to host NJIT.