Norfolk State secures NCAA Tournament spot after thrilling MEAC victory

In a thrilling basketball game held in Norfolk, Virginia, top-seeded Norfolk State emerged victorious in the Mid-Eastern Athletic Conference (MEAC) Tournament championship. This event took place on Saturday, where Christian Ings scored a crucial 16 points and made the go-ahead free throw with just eight seconds left on the clock, leading to a final score of 66-65 against second-seeded South Carolina State. This win not only granted Norfolk State the championship title but also secured their spot in the NCAA Tournament, marking their third consecutive tournament appearance since 2021 and their fourth overall. The game unfolded dramatically as Norfolk State initially established a steady lead, holding a 61-51 advantage with two minutes remaining. However, South Carolina State mounted a remarkable comeback led by Wilson Dubinsky, who scored the next 12 points, narrowing the gap significantly. The intensity of the game escalated as South Carolina State executed a series of steals and plays that culminated in tying the score at 65-65. The tension reached its peak when Caleb McCarty, who executed a key layup to equalize, inadvertently fouled Ings. After converting one of his free throws, Norfolk State regained the lead. Despite the efforts of South Carolina State and their strong performance, especially from Dubinsky, who finished with 24 points, they were unable to secure a win as time expired following last-minute attempts. This championship game represented a long-awaited success for Norfolk State, solidifying their position as a formidable contender in the NCAA landscape. Separately, in a women's championship matchup on the same day, the Norfolk State women also triumphed against Howard, securing their third consecutive NCAA Tournament bid. Kierra Wheeler was a standout player, scoring 19 points, and Diamond Johnson’s performance in the third quarter significantly contributed to their 68-56 victory. This parallel achievement showcases the strength and competitiveness of the Norfolk State basketball programs.