Eagles MBB Soar in OT Thriller, Take Down Norfolk State in Home Finale

DURHAM, NC – In a heart-pounding overtime showdown, North Carolina Central University (NCCU) pulled off a 91-87 victory over Norfolk State on Monday night at McDougald-McLendon Arena, closing out their home finale in dramatic fashion.

Keishon Porter led the charge with 24 points, while Po’Boigh King (18), Dionte Johnson (13), Jaqai Murray (10), and Isaac Parson (10) all contributed double-digit performances. Junior Perry Smith Jr. dominated the glass with a game-high 11 rebounds, helping NCCU outwork the Spartans on the boards, 35-26.

The Eagles (13-17, 6-7 MEAC) finished the season 10-4 at home and have now won two straight heading into their regular-season finale.

Fast Start, Fierce Finish

NCCU set the tone early, building a 10-point lead in the first half before heading into the break up 38-36. The Eagles maintained control in the second half, extending their advantage to 68-56 with 7:19 remaining before Norfolk State stormed back with an 11-2 run to make it a one-possession game.

With the game tied at 72-72, NSU’s Brian Moore Jr. (24 points) hit two clutch free throws to put the Spartans up by two. King answered with a jumper, but Moore kept Norfolk State in front before King knocked down two clutch free throws with 48 seconds left to force overtime.

Eagles Take Flight in OT

NCCU took control in the extra period and never trailed. Johnson and Porter sealed the win at the free-throw line, combining to shoot 10-of-12 in overtime after the Eagles struggled at the stripe in regulation.

The Eagles will look to carry this momentum into their regular-season finale at South Carolina State on Thursday, March 6, at 7:30 p.m.

For more updates, visit NCCUEaglePride.com or download the NCCU Eagles Athletics app.

Photo: NCCU Athletics/Juan Richardson