Tulsa Holds Off New Mexico 74–69 to Advance to NIT Championship

INDIANAPOLIS — Auburn completed a dramatic postseason run Sunday night, defeating Tulsa 92–86 in overtime at Gainbridge Fieldhouse to claim the program’s first National Invitation Tournament championship. The Tigers overcame a massive second-half collapse, regained composure in the final seconds of regulation, and controlled overtime to finish a five-game NIT run with a title. Auburn improved to 22–16 on the season, while Tulsa ended its year at 30–8 after one of the most resilient tournament runs in the country. Fast Start Gives Auburn Early Control Auburn set the tone early with one of its most dominant stretches of the postseason. The Tigers opened the game shooting efficiently and applying defensive pressure that disrupted Tulsa’s offense from the outset. Auburn quickly built a double-digit lead, fueled by balanced scoring and strong perimeter shooting. Tahaad Pettiford and Kevin Overton led the charge early, combining for multiple three-pointers while pushing the pace in transition. The Tigers extended their lead to 34–13 during the first half, capitalizing on Tulsa’s struggles to find rhythm. The Golden Hurricane missed 10 consecutive shots during one stretch and committed multiple turnovers, allowing Auburn to build a commanding advantage. By halftime, Auburn held a 48–31 lead, appearing in full control after dominating both ends of the floor. Tulsa Responds With Massive Second-Half Run The game shifted dramatically after the break as Tulsa mounted one of the most impressive comebacks of the postseason. The Golden Hurricane increased defensive pressure and began converting scoring opportunities, gradually chipping away at Auburn’s lead. A decisive turning point came during a 22–2 Tulsa run that erased Auburn’s advantage and gave the Golden Hurricane its first lead of the game. David Green led the surge, scoring consistently and providing momentum that shifted the game’s tone. Tulsa continued to apply pressure, eventually taking a late lead and putting Auburn in a position where it needed a final push to stay alive. Late Sequence Forces Overtime With the game nearing its conclusion, Tulsa appeared poised to secure the championship. A three-pointer gave the Golden Hurricane a five-point lead with just over a minute remaining, creating separation at a critical moment. Auburn responded with urgency. Pettiford hit a key three-pointer to cut the deficit, and the Tigers continued to fight for possessions in the closing seconds. A crucial defensive stand forced a five-second violation on an inbound play, giving Auburn one final opportunity. Overton delivered the defining moment of regulation, knocking down a game-tying three-pointer with eight seconds remaining to send the game into overtime. Auburn Takes Control in Overtime Once the game reached overtime, Auburn regained control and executed with precision. The Tigers shot efficiently in the extra period, converting four of five field-goal attempts while limiting Tulsa’s scoring opportunities. Overton continued his standout performance, hitting a deep three-pointer that extended Auburn’s lead and shifted momentum decisively. The Tigers maintained control through disciplined defense and timely free throws in the closing seconds. Tulsa remained competitive but was unable to match Auburn’s execution in the extra period, as the Tigers outscored the Golden Hurricane down the stretch to secure the victory. Overton and Pettiford Lead the Way Kevin Overton delivered a championship performance, leading Auburn with 26 points while hitting multiple key shots, including the game-tying three-pointer in regulation and a critical basket in overtime. Tahaad Pettiford added 24 points and eight assists, providing consistent scoring and playmaking throughout the game. His ability to create offense and respond in key moments played a major role in Auburn’s success. The Tigers also received strong contributions across the lineup. Keyshawn Hall recorded a double-double with 11 points and 12 rebounds, while Sebastian Williams-Adams added 13 points. Elyjah Freeman contributed on the glass, finishing with 14 rebounds and helping Auburn control key possessions. Balanced Effort Completes Title Run Auburn’s balanced scoring proved essential, with five players finishing in double figures. The team’s depth allowed it to maintain offensive production even as Tulsa mounted its comeback. The Tigers’ ability to respond to adversity and execute under pressure defined their postseason run. Auburn won five consecutive games in the NIT, demonstrating resilience and consistency throughout the tournament. Tulsa Falls Short After Strong Season Tulsa delivered a strong performance despite the loss, showcasing resilience and determination throughout the game. The Golden Hurricane erased a significant deficit and took control late in regulation before falling short in overtime. David Green led Tulsa with 25 points, while Tylen Riley added 20 and Ade Popoola contributed 13. The team’s second-half surge highlighted its ability to compete at a high level, even against a team that controlled much of the game early. The loss ended one of the most successful seasons in program history, with Tulsa finishing with 30 wins and a deep postseason run. Final Takeaway Auburn’s 92–86 victory over Tulsa was defined by resilience, late-game execution, and overtime composure. The Tigers built a commanding early lead, survived a major second-half collapse, and responded with clutch plays to force overtime and secure the win. Tulsa showed remarkable fight and nearly completed a comeback, but Auburn’s execution in the final moments and extra period proved decisive.  With the victory, Auburn captures its first NIT championship, closing the season with momentum and a statement performance that reflects the team’s growth and ability to compete under pressure.

LAS VEGAS — West Virginia controlled the game from the opening minutes and never trailed, defeating Creighton 87–70 in the College Basketball Crown semifinals to earn a spot in the championship game. The Mountaineers delivered one of their most complete performances of the postseason, using efficient shooting, rebounding, and balanced scoring to separate from the Bluejays. The win pushed West Virginia to 20–14 on the season and secured the program’s first 20-win campaign in six years. Creighton, meanwhile, saw its season end at 16–18, with the loss also marking the final game of Greg McDermott’s tenure as head coach. Fast Start Sets the Tone West Virginia wasted no time taking control, opening the game with the first eight points and immediately putting Creighton on its heels. Honor Huff knocked down early three-pointers, while the Mountaineers established an aggressive rhythm on both ends of the floor. That hot start helped West Virginia build an early cushion and forced Creighton to play from behind the rest of the afternoon. Creighton did manage to cut into the deficit after falling behind by as much as 29–17 in the first half. The Bluejays responded with a strong run to make it a one-possession game, but West Virginia answered each push and carried a 43–37 lead into halftime. The Mountaineers had already established an advantage in the paint and looked sharper offensively throughout the opening 20 minutes. DJ Thomas Sparks a Balanced Offensive Attack Freshman DJ Thomas provided the biggest offensive lift for West Virginia, finishing with 20 points off the bench on 9-of-14 shooting. He played with confidence from the start, scoring 12 first-half points and giving the Mountaineers another creator who consistently pressured Creighton’s defense. His scoring punch helped West Virginia maintain control whenever the Bluejays tried to close the gap. Thomas was far from alone. Treysen Eaglestaff added 16 points, Brenen Lorient scored 15, Honor Huff contributed 13, and Chance Moore posted 10 points with a game-high 13 rebounds. With five players in double figures, West Virginia showcased the kind of depth and balance that made it difficult for Creighton to focus on stopping any one player. Second-Half Push Breaks the Game Open After Creighton opened the second half by trimming the margin to four, West Virginia answered with the decisive stretch of the game. The Mountaineers strung together timely baskets and defensive stops to extend the lead into double digits, eventually pushing the advantage to 16 with just over nine minutes remaining. Every time Creighton threatened, West Virginia had a response. The Bluejays later used an 8–0 run to get back within striking distance, but West Virginia shut the door with perimeter shooting. Eaglestaff hit back-to-back three-pointers, Huff added another, and the Mountaineers quickly rebuilt their cushion. That sequence effectively ended Creighton’s comeback hopes and turned the closing minutes into a controlled finish for West Virginia. Rebounding, Shooting, and Interior Play Make the Difference West Virginia’s efficiency was a major factor in the outcome. The Mountaineers shot 53 percent from the field and connected on 12 of 30 attempts from beyond the arc. They also outrebounded Creighton 39–29 and held advantages in second-chance points, points in the paint, bench scoring, and points off turnovers. Those numbers reflected just how complete the performance was. Creighton received 18 points from Josh Dix, 15 from Hudson Greer, and a 14-point, 12-rebound effort from Jasen Green. But despite those contributions, the Bluejays could never fully recover from West Virginia’s early control or match the Mountaineers’ scoring balance over 40 minutes. Championship Berth Secured With the victory, West Virginia advanced to face Oklahoma in the College Basketball Crown title game. The Mountaineers entered that matchup with momentum, confidence, and a level of offensive balance that had carried them convincingly through the semifinal round. Final Takeaway West Virginia’s 87–70 win over Creighton was defined by its strong opening, balanced scoring, and control of the game’s key statistical areas. DJ Thomas led the way, the supporting cast delivered across the board, and the Mountaineers never allowed Creighton to seize momentum. It was a confident, wire-to-wire performance that sent West Virginia to the CBC championship game in impressive fashion. 

HUNTINGTON, W.Va. — Marshall capped a historic season with a commanding performance Saturday afternoon, defeating Illinois State 66–41 at the Cam Henderson Center to win the Women’s National Invitation Tournament championship. The Thundering Herd improved to 28–9 on the season and secured the program’s first WNIT title, finishing their postseason run in dominant fashion on their home floor. Illinois State, making its first championship appearance, concluded its season at 24–14 after struggling to match Marshall’s efficiency and early momentum. Explosive First Quarter Sets the Tone Marshall established control immediately, fueled by an extraordinary opening stretch from Timaya Lewis-Eutsey. The senior guard scored the first 11 points for the Thundering Herd, setting the tone with efficient shooting and aggressive play. Illinois State briefly kept pace early, as Grace Nelson scored the team’s first six points to give the Redbirds a short-lived advantage. That momentum quickly shifted as Marshall responded with a scoring surge, building a lead that would continue to grow throughout the quarter. The Thundering Herd closed the opening period on a 10–2 run, finishing with a 21–10 lead. Marshall shot 75 percent from the field in the first quarter, while Illinois State struggled to find consistency, shooting just 27 percent. Marshall Maintains Control Before Halftime Illinois State attempted to respond in the second quarter, opening with a quick 4–0 run to cut the deficit. However, Marshall answered immediately, maintaining its advantage through balanced scoring and steady defensive pressure. The Redbirds briefly reduced the margin to eight points late in the half, but Marshall delivered a key basket just before the buzzer to extend its lead. By halftime, the Thundering Herd held a 31–21 advantage, maintaining firm control of the game. Marshall’s ability to control tempo and capitalize on efficient shooting limited Illinois State’s opportunities to generate momentum heading into the second half. Third-Quarter Run Breaks the Game Open Any hopes of a comeback were quickly erased after the break. Marshall opened the third quarter with a decisive 12–0 run, extending its lead to 43–21 and forcing Illinois State into a difficult position. The Redbirds responded with a short burst, trimming the deficit slightly with back-to-back baskets, but the damage had already been done. Marshall continued to dictate the pace, maintaining its double-digit lead while limiting Illinois State’s offensive rhythm. By the end of the third quarter, the Thundering Herd led 50–34, firmly in control and positioned to close out the game. Fourth Quarter Seals the Championship Marshall wasted no time securing the victory in the final period. The Thundering Herd opened the fourth quarter with an 8–0 run, pushing the lead to 58–34 and eliminating any remaining doubt. Illinois State managed a brief scoring stretch late in the game, but the deficit proved too large to overcome. Marshall maintained composure, controlling possessions and running out the clock to secure the 66–41 win. The final margin reflected Marshall’s dominance across all phases of the game, particularly in shooting efficiency and defensive execution. Lewis-Eutsey Leads Championship Effort Timaya Lewis-Eutsey delivered a standout performance, finishing with 27 points on efficient shooting. She connected on 12 of 17 field-goal attempts and made all three of her three-point shots, leading the Thundering Herd from start to finish. Her early scoring surge provided the foundation for Marshall’s victory, while her consistency throughout the game ensured the Redbirds could not mount a comeback. Marshall also received contributions across its roster, with all players who saw the floor scoring at least one basket. The balanced production reinforced the team’s depth and ability to maintain performance over the course of the game. Illinois State Struggles to Find Rhythm Illinois State entered the championship with momentum but struggled to replicate its offensive success. The Redbirds shot just 29 percent from the field and connected on only three of 17 three-point attempts, limiting their ability to keep pace. Addison Martin led Illinois State with 11 points, while Trista Fayta added nine. Doneelah Washington, the team’s leading scorer throughout the season, was held scoreless, highlighting Marshall’s defensive effectiveness. Despite the loss, Illinois State completed a strong postseason run, reaching the championship game for the first time in program history and finishing with 24 wins for the second consecutive season. Historic Season for Marshall The victory marked a milestone moment for Marshall, completing the most successful season in program history. The Thundering Herd set a program record for wins and finished the tournament with consistent performances built on efficiency and defensive intensity. Marshall’s ability to dominate early in games and maintain control throughout the tournament proved to be the defining factor in its championship run. Final Takeaway Marshall’s 66–41 victory over Illinois State was defined by early dominance, efficient shooting, and sustained defensive pressure. The Thundering Herd built a double-digit lead in the first quarter, extended it with a decisive third-quarter run, and closed the game with authority. Illinois State showed resilience throughout the tournament but was unable to overcome shooting struggles and Marshall’s early momentum in the championship game.  With the victory, Marshall captures its first WNIT title and completes a historic season with a performance that showcased depth, execution, and consistency from start to finish.

INDIANAPOLIS — Michigan delivered a commanding performance on college basketball’s biggest stage, defeating Arizona 91–73 in the Final Four to secure a spot in the national championship game. In a matchup featuring two of the nation’s top teams, the Wolverines controlled the game from the opening minutes and never allowed Arizona to find sustained momentum. The victory pushed Michigan to 36–3 on the season and into its first national title game since 2018. Arizona, which entered the night with one of the most successful seasons in program history, saw its run end despite a strong year that included a program-record 36 wins and its first Final Four appearance in over two decades.  Fast Start Gives Michigan Early Control Michigan wasted no time establishing its presence, opening the game with an aggressive scoring burst that immediately put Arizona on the defensive. The Wolverines raced out to an early lead, capitalizing on missed shots and turnovers to build momentum within the first few minutes. Arizona struggled to find rhythm offensively, missing early opportunities while Michigan continued to convert on the other end. The Wolverines’ ability to score efficiently and apply defensive pressure created separation quickly, forcing Arizona into a catch-up position almost immediately. Even when the Wildcats attempted to respond with a brief run midway through the first half, Michigan answered with timely baskets and extended scoring runs. By the end of the first half, the Wolverines had built a 48–32 lead, putting themselves firmly in control of the game. Efficiency and Execution Define Michigan’s Performance Michigan’s offensive efficiency was a key factor throughout the game. The Wolverines shot over 57 percent from the field and were especially effective in the second half, where they converted at an even higher rate. Their ability to generate high-quality scoring opportunities, combined with strong ball movement and shot selection, made it difficult for Arizona to mount a defensive response. Michigan consistently found open looks and capitalized on them, extending its lead whenever the Wildcats showed signs of momentum. In addition to their shooting efficiency, the Wolverines benefited from strong interior play and transition scoring, further widening the gap as the game progressed. Arizona Struggles to Keep Pace Arizona entered the matchup with one of the nation’s top defenses, but it struggled to contain Michigan’s offensive rhythm. The Wildcats shot just 36 percent from the field and had difficulty creating consistent scoring opportunities. Turnovers also played a significant role, as Arizona committed multiple mistakes that Michigan quickly converted into points. The combination of inefficient shooting and turnovers prevented the Wildcats from sustaining any meaningful comeback attempts. Despite the challenges, Arizona continued to compete and showed flashes of its offensive potential. However, each time the Wildcats attempted to close the gap, Michigan responded with another scoring run to maintain control. Key Performances Lead Michigan Michigan’s success was fueled by a balanced offensive effort, with multiple players contributing throughout the game. Aday Mara led the Wolverines with 26 points, showcasing his scoring ability and efficiency in key moments. Trey McKenney added 16 points, providing perimeter shooting that stretched Arizona’s defense. Elliot Cadeau delivered a strong all-around performance with 13 points and 10 assists, controlling the tempo and facilitating Michigan’s offense effectively. Additional contributions came from Yaxel Lendeborg and Morez Johnson Jr., who provided scoring, rebounding, and defensive presence. This depth allowed Michigan to maintain a high level of play without relying on a single scorer. Second Half Seals the Outcome Any hopes of an Arizona comeback were quickly diminished in the second half as Michigan extended its lead. The Wolverines opened the half with another strong scoring stretch, building a significant advantage that reached more than 20 points. Arizona attempted to respond with brief scoring runs, but the Wildcats were unable to string together enough stops to make a meaningful impact. Michigan’s consistency on both ends of the floor ensured that the lead remained secure throughout the remainder of the game. By the final minutes, the outcome was no longer in doubt, with Michigan maintaining control and closing out the game comfortably. Historic Season Ends for Arizona Despite the loss, Arizona’s season remains one of the most successful in program history. The Wildcats finished with a 36–3 record and made their first Final Four appearance since 2001, marking a significant milestone for the program. Freshman Koa Peat led Arizona in the game with 16 points and 11 rebounds, becoming the first freshman in program history to record a double-double in the Final Four. His performance highlighted the team’s potential moving forward, even as the season came to an end. Championship Stage Awaits Michigan With the victory, Michigan advanced to face UConn in the national championship game. The Wolverines entered the final with momentum, having consistently delivered high-scoring performances throughout the tournament. Final Takeaway Michigan’s 91–73 win over Arizona was defined by early control, offensive efficiency, and consistent execution. The Wolverines set the tone from the opening minutes and never allowed Arizona to recover, delivering a complete performance on both ends of the floor. With balanced scoring and strong defensive pressure, Michigan positioned itself for a chance to capture a national championship, while Arizona’s remarkable season came to a close just short of the title game.

LAS VEGAS — Oklahoma delivered a composed and complete performance in the College Basketball Crown semifinals, defeating Baylor 82–69 behind a dominant closing stretch and balanced scoring effort. In a game that featured momentum swings and a brief second-half scare, the Sooners relied on efficiency, defense, and late execution to secure their place in the championship game. The win pushed Oklahoma to 21–15 on the season and marked its eighth victory in the last nine games, continuing a strong late-season surge. Baylor, which battled throughout and briefly took control in the second half, finished its season at 17–17 after falling short against a team that proved more consistent over the full 40 minutes. Oklahoma Sets the Tone Early with Efficiency and Control From the opening minutes, Oklahoma established control by playing with purpose on both ends of the floor. The Sooners capitalized on Baylor’s early mistakes, turning turnovers into quick scoring opportunities and building momentum through disciplined offense. Xzayvier Brown led the early charge, scoring efficiently while facilitating the offense with poise. His ability to control tempo and avoid turnovers gave Oklahoma a steady presence throughout the first half. Meanwhile, the Sooners’ defense applied pressure that disrupted Baylor’s rhythm and limited clean scoring chances. Oklahoma’s ability to convert on offense while forcing mistakes created a clear separation as the half progressed. The Sooners shot efficiently and maintained a significant advantage in points off turnovers, allowing them to build a 45–35 lead heading into halftime. Baylor Responds with Second-Half Surge Despite trailing by double digits at the break, Baylor came out of halftime with renewed energy and focus. The Bears tightened their defense and found success offensively, putting together a strong run that quickly erased Oklahoma’s advantage. An aggressive push midway through the second half allowed Baylor to take a 52–51 lead, marking a key turning point in the game. During that stretch, Baylor controlled the pace, attacked the basket effectively, and forced Oklahoma into a brief period of inconsistency. The surge shifted momentum and created pressure on the Sooners, who were forced to respond after seeing their comfortable lead disappear. However, Oklahoma’s composure proved to be a defining factor in what followed. Sooners Regain Control with Composure and Execution Rather than allowing the game to slip away, Oklahoma responded with timely shot-making and improved defensive focus. The Sooners quickly regained the lead and stabilized the tempo, preventing Baylor from building on its momentum. Tae Davis played a key role during this stretch, delivering crucial baskets that helped Oklahoma regain control. His scoring, particularly in the second half, provided stability when the game tightened and Baylor threatened to take over. Derrion Reid also contributed with aggressive play in transition and effective finishing around the rim, while Nijel Pack added scoring and defensive pressure. Together, the Sooners reestablished control by executing in key moments and limiting Baylor’s opportunities to sustain its run. Dominant Closing Run Seals the Victory With the game still within reach late, Oklahoma delivered its most decisive stretch of the night. The Sooners outscored Baylor 19–8 over the final 6:18, turning a competitive contest into a comfortable win. During that closing stretch, Oklahoma’s defense tightened significantly, limiting Baylor’s scoring opportunities and forcing difficult shots. The Bears struggled to generate offense, failing to score consistently as the Sooners maintained control. On the offensive end, Oklahoma executed with efficiency, converting key possessions and extending the lead with each trip down the floor. The combination of defensive stops and timely scoring created separation that Baylor could not overcome. Balanced Scoring Fuels Oklahoma’s Performance Oklahoma’s success was driven by a well-rounded offensive effort, with multiple players contributing throughout the game. Brown led the way with 21 points, six assists, and six rebounds, showcasing his ability to impact the game in multiple areas. Davis added 18 points, with the majority coming in the second half, while Reid contributed 17 points through aggressive and efficient scoring. Pack rounded out the group with 15 points, four assists, and three steals, providing leadership and defensive intensity. This balanced attack made it difficult for Baylor to focus on any single player, as Oklahoma consistently found scoring from multiple sources. Efficiency and Defense Make the Difference The statistical edge reflected Oklahoma’s overall control of the game. The Sooners shot 50 percent from the field compared to Baylor’s 39 percent, highlighting their offensive efficiency. More importantly, Oklahoma dominated in points off turnovers, holding a 21–2 advantage. That margin underscored the Sooners’ defensive activity and ability to convert mistakes into immediate scoring opportunities. Even during Baylor’s second-half push, Oklahoma’s consistency on both ends of the floor ultimately proved too much to overcome. Championship Opportunity Ahead With the win, Oklahoma advanced to face West Virginia in the College Basketball Crown championship game. The Sooners entered the final with momentum, confidence, and a balanced style of play that has defined their recent success. Final Takeaway Oklahoma’s 82–69 victory over Baylor was defined by control, resilience, and late-game execution. After building an early lead and responding to a second-half surge, the Sooners delivered a dominant closing run to secure the win.  With balanced scoring, strong defense, and consistent execution, Oklahoma positioned itself for a chance to finish its postseason run with a championship performance.

VERMILLION, S.D. — Illinois State delivered a composed road performance Wednesday night, defeating South Dakota 67–60 in the WNIT semifinals to secure a spot in the championship game. The Redbirds improved to 24–13 on the season and advanced to the WNIT title game for the first time in program history, while South Dakota saw its season conclude at 26–10 after falling short despite a late comeback attempt on its home floor. Early Back-and-Forth Sets the Tone South Dakota came out with energy in front of its home crowd, establishing early momentum with an 8–0 run to take control in the opening minutes. The Coyotes used strong ball movement and efficient shooting to build a 17–12 lead by the end of the first quarter. Illinois State responded by staying composed and gradually settling into its offensive rhythm. Doneelah Washington played a key role early, helping the Redbirds remain within striking distance as they adjusted to South Dakota’s pace. The Coyotes extended their lead to 20–12 early in the second quarter, creating their largest advantage of the game. Illinois State answered immediately, using a 7–0 run to cut the deficit to one possession and shift momentum. Redbirds Take Control Before Halftime The second quarter turned into a tightly contested stretch, with both teams trading baskets and momentum. Illinois State began to find more consistent scoring opportunities, particularly through its frontcourt, which created mismatches and opened the floor. The Redbirds eventually took the lead late in the half and carried that momentum into the final seconds. A late basket gave Illinois State a 33–31 advantage heading into halftime, completing the turnaround after trailing earlier in the period. Third-Quarter Run Creates Separation Illinois State seized control early in the second half with a decisive scoring run. The Redbirds opened the third quarter with a 6–0 burst, quickly extending their lead and forcing South Dakota to respond. Washington continued to lead the charge, connecting from the perimeter and creating offensive opportunities that allowed Illinois State to build separation. The Redbirds followed with another scoring surge later in the quarter, pushing the lead to double digits. An 8–0 run capped by a three-pointer extended the margin to 50–39 late in the third quarter. Although South Dakota managed a late basket to trim the deficit, Illinois State entered the fourth quarter with a 50–41 lead and clear momentum. South Dakota Rallies but Falls Short South Dakota refused to let the game slip away, mounting a comeback effort in the fourth quarter. The Coyotes increased their defensive intensity and began to find more consistent scoring, cutting into the Redbirds’ lead. A 7–0 run reduced the deficit to single digits, and the home crowd provided energy as South Dakota continued to apply pressure. The Coyotes eventually trimmed the margin to just five points with under three minutes remaining, putting Illinois State under late-game pressure. Despite the surge, Illinois State maintained composure. The Redbirds responded with timely plays on both ends of the floor, preventing South Dakota from fully completing the comeback. Free Throws Seal the Victory The final minutes were defined by execution and discipline. Illinois State relied on its ability to convert at the free-throw line, making key shots to preserve its lead as South Dakota attempted to close the gap. South Dakota had opportunities to cut further into the deficit but was unable to string together enough stops and scoring possessions to take control. Illinois State’s ability to execute under pressure ultimately secured the 67–60 victory and a place in the championship game. Washington Leads Balanced Offensive Effort Doneelah Washington delivered a standout performance, leading Illinois State with 21 points and 11 rebounds to record a double-double. Her ability to impact the game both inside and from the perimeter proved to be a decisive factor. Washington also connected on four three-pointers, providing a scoring boost that helped Illinois State build and maintain its lead throughout the second half. The Redbirds received strong support across the lineup, with Addison Martin and Trista Fayta each contributing 14 points. Bella Finnegan added 10 points, giving Illinois State four players in double figures and reinforcing its balanced offensive approach. Defense and Efficiency Make the Difference Illinois State’s defensive execution played a critical role in the win. The Redbirds disrupted South Dakota’s offensive rhythm, forcing difficult shots and limiting efficient scoring opportunities. The Redbirds also maintained strong offensive efficiency, shooting 49 percent from the field and consistently converting scoring chances throughout the game. South Dakota showed resilience, particularly in the fourth quarter, but struggled with consistency and shot selection against Illinois State’s defensive pressure. South Dakota’s Season Ends on Strong Note South Dakota concluded its season with 26 wins and one of its deepest postseason runs in program history. The Coyotes demonstrated competitiveness and resilience throughout the WNIT, including a strong effort in the semifinal matchup. Molly Joyce led South Dakota with 16 points, while Angelina Robles added 14. The team’s late comeback effort highlighted its ability to compete under pressure, even as the early deficit proved too difficult to overcome. Final Takeaway Illinois State’s 67–60 victory over South Dakota was defined by composure, balanced scoring, and second-half execution. The Redbirds overcame an early deficit, built separation in the third quarter, and held off a late rally to secure the win. South Dakota showed resilience and pushed the game to the final minutes, but Illinois State’s efficiency and ability to execute in key moments proved decisive. With the victory, Illinois State advances to the WNIT Championship for the first time in program history, setting up a final matchup against Marshall with a postseason title on the line. 

JONESBORO, Ark. — Marshall delivered a composed and complete performance Wednesday night, defeating Arkansas State 69–62 in the WNIT semifinals to secure a spot in the championship game. The Thundering Herd improved to 28–9 on the season and advanced to the WNIT title game for the first time in program history, while Arkansas State saw its impressive season conclude at 27–10 after falling just short in a competitive semifinal matchup. Marshall Sets the Tone Early Marshall established control from the opening minutes, using defensive pressure and efficient scoring to take an early lead. Arkansas State struggled to find its rhythm early, going nearly five minutes without a field goal as Marshall built a double-digit advantage. The Red Wolves managed just six points in the first quarter, while Marshall’s defense forced multiple turnovers and disrupted offensive flow. The early deficit placed Arkansas State in a position where it had to play from behind for the remainder of the game. Marshall carried that momentum into the second quarter, maintaining its lead through consistent execution and balanced scoring. Arkansas State Responds Before Halftime Arkansas State began to settle in during the second quarter, improving its shot selection and finding success from the perimeter. Back-to-back three-pointers helped cut into the deficit, briefly bringing the Red Wolves within striking distance. The teams traded baskets over the final minutes of the half, but Marshall maintained its composure and continued to control the pace. By halftime, the Thundering Herd held a 32–25 lead, reflecting their early dominance and defensive effectiveness. Second Half Becomes Back-and-Forth Battle Arkansas State showed resilience in the second half, gradually chipping away at the deficit and increasing its defensive intensity. The Red Wolves found more consistent scoring, particularly from Crislyn Rose and Bella Weary, who combined to provide a significant offensive boost. Weary delivered a strong performance off the bench, finishing with 19 points and seven rebounds, while Rose added 16 points and six assists. Their production helped Arkansas State stay competitive and apply pressure throughout the second half. Marshall, however, continued to respond to every run. The Thundering Herd maintained control by executing in key moments and limiting Arkansas State’s ability to fully seize momentum. Fourth Quarter Decides the Outcome The game tightened significantly in the fourth quarter, with Arkansas State cutting the deficit to just one point at 55–54 with five minutes remaining. The Red Wolves appeared poised to complete the comeback and take control for the first time. Marshall responded with its most decisive stretch of the game. A key three-pointer sparked a 9–0 run that pushed the Thundering Herd’s lead back to double digits, effectively halting Arkansas State’s momentum. The run proved to be the turning point, as Marshall regained control and dictated the final minutes. Arkansas State was forced to foul late in an attempt to extend the game, but Marshall converted key free throws and maintained possession to secure the victory. Lewis-Eutsey Leads the Way Timaya Lewis-Eutsey delivered a standout performance for Marshall, leading all scorers with 31 points. She shot efficiently from the field and provided consistent offense throughout the game, particularly during key stretches when Arkansas State threatened to close the gap. Her ability to create scoring opportunities and convert under pressure played a major role in Marshall’s success. The performance marked her seventh 30-point game of the season, highlighting her importance as the team’s primary offensive leader. Marshall also received contributions across the roster, with additional scoring support and strong rebounding helping maintain balance. Defense and Turnovers Prove Critical Marshall’s defense was a defining factor in the win. The Thundering Herd forced 21 turnovers and converted those opportunities into 23 points, creating a significant advantage in the possession battle. The defensive effort also limited Arkansas State’s efficiency from beyond the arc, holding the Red Wolves to just 26 percent shooting from three-point range. Additionally, Marshall’s ability to maintain defensive intensity throughout the game prevented Arkansas State from sustaining long scoring runs. Arkansas State’s Season Comes to an End Arkansas State delivered a strong performance despite the loss, showing resilience after falling behind early. The Red Wolves fought back in the second half and nearly completed a comeback in the final minutes. Weary and Rose led the team’s offensive effort, while the team’s improved play in the second half demonstrated its ability to compete under pressure. The loss concluded a successful season that included 27 wins and a deep postseason run. Marshall Advances to Historic Championship Appearance With the victory, Marshall advanced to the WNIT championship game for the first time in program history. The Thundering Herd also set a single-season record for wins, continuing one of the most successful seasons the program has experienced. Marshall will host Illinois State in the championship matchup, carrying momentum from a strong postseason run that has been defined by defense, balanced scoring, and consistent execution. Final Takeaway Marshall’s 69–62 victory over Arkansas State was defined by early control, defensive pressure, and timely execution in the fourth quarter. The Thundering Herd built an early lead, withstood a second-half comeback, and responded with a decisive run to secure the win. Arkansas State showed resilience and nearly completed a comeback, but Marshall’s defense and late-game execution proved too much to overcome. With the victory, Marshall advances to the WNIT championship, positioning itself for a historic opportunity to capture its first postseason title.