SIOUX FALLS, S.D. — On Sunday night, Omaha triumphed over St. Thomas-Minnesota with a final score of 85-75 in the championship game of the Summit League Tournament, clinching an automatic berth to the NCAA Tournament. JJ White led the Mavericks with an impressive 29 points, while teammate Marquel Sutton added 22 points and secured a career-high 18 rebounds. The top-seeded Mavericks managed to secure their first-ever appearance in the NCAA Tournament since starting their Division I journey in 2011. The current season, boasting 22 victories, marks their best since the transition.
During the first half of the game, both White and reserve player Lance Waddles were crucial, scoring 11 points each and collectively making 5 out of 6 shots from beyond the arc, which helped guide Omaha to a 39-33 lead at halftime. Sutton, who was named the Summit League Player of the Year, achieved his eighth double-double of the season by the break, scoring 10 points and grabbing 10 rebounds.
In the early minutes of the second half, Sutton initiated the play with an electrifying dunk, and White followed it up with a three-pointer, extending the Mavericks’ lead into double digits. A subsequent three-pointer by Waddles expanded their advantage to 51-36 with 14 minutes remaining on the clock.
Although St. Thomas made efforts to close the gap, coming within six points on four occasions, their attempts fell short. The last instance was marked by a free throw from Minessale, bringing the score to 79-73 with just under two minutes left. Sutton and White responded by increasing the lead once more with two foul shots and a layup, respectively, sealing the win and the championship title.
JJ White’s standout performance included 10 of 14 successful shots, with three from the three-point range and five assists. Lance Waddles contributed significantly, draining four three-pointers and adding 15 points to the scoreboard. St. Thomas was led by a strong showing from Minessale with 20 points, while Miles Barnstable chipped in with 14 points.
