HUNTSVILLE, Ala. — In a thrilling matchup, freshman Quel’Ron House powered Jacksonville State to a narrow 70-68 victory over Middle Tennessee in the semifinals of the Conference USA Tournament on Friday. He sealed the win for the Gamecocks with two crucial free throws in the last 22 seconds.
The Gamecocks, now with a record of 22-11, will advance to face Liberty in the tournament’s championship game on Saturday.
During the game, House proved to be a key player, shooting 6-for-10, including 2-for-4 from the three-point line, and a perfect 6-for-6 at the free-throw line, resulting in a total of 20 points. Jaron Pierre Jr. also contributed significantly with 19 points, achieving 6-for-18 from the field and 5-for-6 from the free-throw line. Marcellus Brigham Jr. added 11 points, shooting 4-for-9 and 2-for-4 from three-point range, along with grabbing nine rebounds.
On the opposing side, Jlynn Counter led the Blue Raiders, also with a 22-11 record, by scoring 18 points, alongside eight rebounds, four assists, and two steals. The Blue Raiders saw additional contributions from Jestin Porter with 13 points and Essam Mostafa who scored 12 points in the game.
The first half ended in a tie, 35-35, with House contributing nine points. The Gamecocks managed to edge ahead as Pierre added 14 points in the second half, securing their spot in the finals.
