In an electrifying matchup at West Point, the Army Black Knights seized a stunning double-overtime victory over the Bucknell Bison, clinching a 116-110 triumph. The match, characterized by intense back-and-forth action, was dominated by Army's Ryan Curry, who scored a remarkable 30 points, with 11 of these coming in the critical second overtime.
Curry's exceptional performance showcased his accuracy, going 10 for 13 from the field, including an impressive 4 of 6 from beyond the arc, and maintaining a perfect 6 of 6 from the free-throw line. His scoring led the Black Knights to a crucial win, bolstering their record to 14-10 overall and 8-4 within the Patriot League.
Jalen Rucker also played a pivotal role, contributing 25 points. Rucker's performance on the court was equally potent, shooting 9 out of 19, with a 3 for 5 success rate from 3-point territory. He showed his versatility by also securing four steals, ensuring the team stayed defensively resilient.
Adding to the Black Knights' dominating offense was Josh Scovens, who efficiently secured 23 points. Scovens shot with incredible precision, going 6 of 7 from the field, a flawless 4 for 4 from 3-point land, and 7 for 8 from the line.
On the opposing side, Bucknell's Noah Williamson led their charge with a formidable 27 points, augmented by his defensive efforts with three steals and two blocks. Supporting him was Josh Bascoe, who tallied 25 points and orchestrated four assists. Achile Spadone added depth to the game with 17 points, eight rebounds, six assists, and a couple of steals, showcasing the Bison's determination.
The game began with Army taking a narrow lead into halftime with a scoreline of 46-40, thanks in part to Kevin McCarthy's early contribution of nine points. However, Bucknell fought back fiercely in the second half, outscoring Army by six points to force the game into extra time, with scores locking at 87.
In the critical second overtime period, Curry's precision shooting shone brightly as he finished undefeated from the field and the line, posting 11 points in this period alone. This effort assured Army's success and a standout victory that will resonate through the remainder of their season.
This contest highlighted the strategic plays and composure required to succeed in intense periods, offering insight into the crucial aspects of teamwork and resilience under pressure. As both teams look ahead, their performances in such high-stakes environments will undoubtedly influence future encounters.