Delaware State Stuns No. 2 Morgan State in MEAC Tournament Thriller

NORFOLK, Va. β€” In one of the most thrilling upsets of the MEAC Tournament, Delaware State delivered when it mattered most, defeating No. 2 seed Morgan State 75-70 in overtime at Scope Arena on Wednesday night. The victory showcased the Hornets' resilience and determination in a win-or-go-home scenario that had HBCU basketball fans on the edge of their seats.

After a challenging conference season, Delaware State saved its most complete performance for the tournament stage, relying on stifling defense, dominant rebounding, and clutch execution when the game was on the line.

"It's your last one because it could be your last one. For us tonight we were able to make some withdrawals on some deposits that we made earlier in the year."
β€” Stan Waterman, Delaware State Head Coach

Defense Delivers the Upset

The Hornets executed their defensive strategy to perfection, particularly in defending the perimeter. Coach Waterman's emphasis on protecting the three-point line proved critical in limiting Morgan State's offensive opportunities.

"We really wanted to defend the arc and defend the three-point line," Waterman explained. "I think they had a tough night shooting the ball tonight...

The tightly contested matchup featured four lead changes and nine ties, with Delaware State controlling key moments on the glass and protecting the basketball throughout.

Webb's Double-Double Sparks Victory

Forward Miles Webb was instrumental in the Hornets' success, recording a double-double with 18 points and 12 rebounds while playing more than 43 minutes. His early scoring set the tone for Delaware State's offensive attack.

"Miles Webb got us out of the gates quickly," Waterman said. "That was huge for us."

The supporting cast also delivered crucial contributions:

• Rahmir Moore: 14 points
• Ponce James: 12 points and 4 assists
• Team shooting: 42.6 percent from the field
• Free throws: 22-of-30, including clutch conversions in overtime

Morgan State's Valiant Effort Falls Short

Despite struggling offensively in the first half, the Bears mounted a furious comeback, outscoring Delaware State 45-33 in the second half to force overtime. Alfred Worrell Jr. and Elijah Davis each finished with 18 points, while Rob Lawson added 14 points and nine rebounds.

Morgan State head coach Kevin Broadus praised his team's effort despite the loss. "You can have a bad day, but you can't have a bad effort day," Broadus said. "We didn't have a bad effort day. We just had a bad day."

Third Time's the Charm

The victory was especially sweet for Delaware State, which had lost two close regular-season matchups against Morgan State. "Third time's a charm," Waterman said. "It's tough to beat a team three times, and we felt like we had a chance tonight."

Delaware State now advances to the semifinals, where they will face the winner of North Carolina Central and Maryland Eastern Shore, keeping their championship hopes alive in the MEAC Tournament.

Originally reported by HBCU Gameday.