O’Keefe displayed an impressive performance, shooting 8 of 9 from the field and sinking 2 of 3 attempts from beyond the arc, while also perfecting his free throws with 4 successful attempts. Alongside him, Kenny Noland contributed 13 points, converting 5 of 16 shots but only managing a single three-pointer out of eight attempts, alongside making 2 out of 4 free throws and providing five assists. Blair Thompson also made his presence felt, adding 11 points from 4 of 9 shooting, with a perfect record from the free-throw line and grabbing 16 rebounds, crucial for the team’s success.
As the clock wound down to just 16 seconds left in the game, Noland executed the first of two free throws to tie the game at 72. Despite missing the subsequent free throw, he made a significant play by securing the offensive rebound. After an unsuccessful three-point attempt by teammate Avery Brown, it was Thompson who clinched the victory with a decisive tip-in, marking the final scores of the game.
On the other side, Kino Lilly Jr. of Brown had a chance to secure a win for his team but missed a critical three-point shot in the last moments of the game. Malcolm Wrisby-Jefferson led the Bears with 16 points, alongside six rebounds, two steals, and two blocks in a solid performance. Landon Lewis added to the team’s efforts with 14 points and three blocks, while Lilly contributed 13 points and five assists.
Looking ahead, both teams are set to compete again this coming Friday. Columbia will take on Dartmouth, while Brown will host Princeton, as they both seek to improve their standings.
