NEW BRITAIN, Conn. — Devin Haid starred with 29 points, while Jordan Jones scored a crucial six points in overtime, leading Central Connecticut to a thrilling 76-72 win over Fairleigh Dickinson. This victory took place on Saturday during a Northeast Conference Tournament semifinal.
Central Connecticut, holding the top seed with a stellar 25-6 record, continues their impressive 12-game winning streak into the championship game scheduled for Tuesday against No. 3 seed St. Francis. The victor will earn an automatic spot in the NCAA Tournament.
At the start of overtime, Abdul Momoh sank two free throws to push Central Connecticut into the lead. Haid quickly added a basket, and Jones secured the victory by scoring the final six points for the team.
Haid contributed significantly to the Blue Devils, not only with points but also adding five rebounds and four steals. Jones made a notable impact with three 3-pointers and three steals, while Jayden Brown chipped in with 10 points.
On the opposing side, Jo’el Emanuel was the standout for the Knights, achieving 17 points, eight rebounds, and two blocks. Terrance Brown contributed 16 points, six rebounds, and three steals, while Bismark Nsiah added 15 points along with nine rebounds, three steals, and two blocks.
Central Connecticut initially surged ahead with a commanding 41-24 lead by halftime. However, Fairleigh Dickinson mounted a comeback, with a key tip-in by Nsiah at 41 seconds and a basket from Brown with 18 seconds remaining, ultimately tying the game at 66 and pushing it into overtime.
