UNCW Seahawks Upset Texas Tech in Overtime

Uncw Vs Texas Tech

UNCW Seahawks Stun Texas Tech Red Raiders in Thrilling Overtime Victory

Lubbock, TX — October 28, 2023 — In a stunning upset that will be talked about for years to come, the UNC Wilmington (UNCW) Seahawks defeated the Texas Tech Red Raiders in a heart-stopping overtime showdown, 89-87, at the United Supermarkets Arena on Saturday night. The game, which many expected to be a routine win for the Red Raiders, turned into a nail-biter as the Seahawks showcased resilience, skill, and an unshakable will to win.

A David vs. Goliath Matchup

The game was billed as a classic David vs. Goliath battle. Texas Tech, a perennial powerhouse in college basketball and a favorite in the Big 12 Conference, entered the game with a 4-0 record and a reputation for stifling defense. UNCW, on the other hand, came in as the underdog, representing the Colonial Athletic Association (CAA) and looking to prove they could compete with the nation's elite.

From the opening tip, it was clear that UNCW was not intimidated. The Seahawks jumped out to an early lead, thanks to sharpshooting from senior guard Shykeim Phillips, who finished the night with 24 points, including five three-pointers. Texas Tech struggled to find its rhythm early, with star player Pop Isaacs facing tight defense from UNCW's Trazarien White, who also contributed a double-double with 18 points and 12 rebounds.

Texas Tech Fights Back

The Red Raiders clawed their way back into the game in the second half, thanks to a dominant performance by forward Warren Washington, who scored 20 points and grabbed 15 rebounds. Texas Tech's defense also tightened, forcing UNCW into several turnovers and taking a 5-point lead with just under three minutes remaining in regulation.

But the Seahawks refused to back down. With less than 10 seconds on the clock and down by 3, UNCW's Phillips drove to the basket, drawing a foul and sinking both free throws. On the ensuing possession, Texas Tech's Darrion Williams missed a crucial free throw, giving UNCW one last chance. With 2.3 seconds left, sophomore guard Nolan Hodge launched a desperation three-pointer from the corner, sending the game into overtime as the buzzer sounded.

Overtime Drama

Overtime was a back-and-forth affair, with both teams trading baskets and the lead changing hands multiple times. UNCW's defense came up huge in the final minutes, forcing a critical turnover by Isaacs with under 30 seconds to play. On the next possession, Phillips drove to the hoop and dished to White for a thunderous dunk, putting the Seahawks up by 2 with just 8 seconds remaining.

Texas Tech had one last chance to tie or win the game, but a contested three-pointer by Isaacs clanged off the rim as time expired, sealing the victory for UNCW. The Seahawks' bench erupted in celebration, while the stunned home crowd filed out in silence.

A Statement Win

'This is a program-defining win for us,' said UNCW head coach Takayo Siddle. 'Our guys showed so much heart and determination tonight. We knew we could compete with anyone, and tonight we proved it.'

For Texas Tech, the loss serves as a wake-up call. 'We didn't respect them enough, and they made us pay,' said Red Raiders head coach Grant McCasland. 'We have to learn from this and get better.'

What's Next?

The win improves UNCW's record to 5-1 on the season, while Texas Tech drops to 4-1. The Seahawks will look to build on this momentum as they return to CAA play, while the Red Raiders will aim to regroup before their next Big 12 matchup.

One thing is certain: UNCW's victory over Texas Tech will be remembered as one of the most thrilling upsets of the 2023 college basketball season.

UNCW Seahawks Upset Texas Tech in Overtime

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