BUFFALO, N.Y. — In a thrilling contest on Friday night, Justice Smith made a crucial basket with just 49 seconds remaining, propelling the Niagara Purple Eagles to a nail-biting 64-63 victory over the Canisius Golden Griffins. The last-minute shot by Smith allowed his team to secure a four-point advantage, which they managed to protect until the final buzzer.

With 38 seconds on the clock, Paul McMillan IV of Canisius connected on a three-pointer to narrow the deficit to just one point. However, Niagara’s Justin Page had an opportunity to extend their lead but missed two free throws with only six seconds left. McMillan then attempted a layup at the buzzer but could not convert, sealing the outcome in favor of Niagara.

Jaeden Marshall led the Purple Eagles with an impressive performance, scoring 18 points while shooting 6 for 10 from the field, including one of five from beyond the arc. He also excelled at the free-throw line, making five out of six attempts. Jahari Williamson contributed significantly as well, netting 16 points on 5 for 7 shooting, which included three successful three-point shots and a perfect three for three from the line. Smith added to the effort with 12 points, going 5 for 9 in field goals and making two of four free throws. This victory for Niagara snapped a five-game losing streak, bringing their record to 8-13 and 3-7 in the Metro Atlantic Athletic Conference.

On the opposing side, McMillan was the standout performer for the Golden Griffins, scoring 27 points, along with four assists and three steals. Dylan Godfrey supported with 12 points, while Gianni Thompson chipped in with eight points for Canisius, whose record now stands at 2-19 and 2-8 in conference play.

Both teams are set to continue their seasons on Thursday, with Niagara traveling to take on Merrimack, while Canisius will head to Quinnipiac.