Owls Fall in Final Seconds to SUNY Orange in National Tournament Opener

Prince George's Community College men's basketball saw its postseason run come to a close on Monday, March 16, falling to No. 15 seed SUNY Orange, 80-78, in the opening round of the NJCAA National Tournament in Danville, Illinois.

Neither team was ever able to grab complete control of the contest which featured 10 ties and 7 lead changes, with both teams trading momentum throughout. The second half proved especially competitive, as the Owls and Colts remained deadlocked for most of the period.

SUNY Orange created a late cushion with a 6-1 run, stretching its lead to 73-66 with under a minute to play. Despite the deficit, the Owls mounted a furious rally behind Willie Rivera Jr., who delivered 12 points in the final 60 seconds, knocking down three clutch three-pointers and converting a 3-for-3 trip to the free throw line after being fouled on a shot from beyond the arc.

However, SUNY Orange maintained its composure at the free throw line in the closing moments. The Colts converted 9-of-10 attempts from the charity stripe down the stretch, forcing the Owls to foul and ultimately holding on to secure the 2-point victory.

Rivera Jr. led Prince George's with 22 points, six rebounds, and three assists, with all three of his three-pointers coming in the game's final minute. Paul Vance III added 12 points and eight rebounds, while Brazil Hutchinson contributed 10 points and nine rebounds, both narrowly missing out on double-doubles.

The Owls will look to bounce back in their final game of the season, a consolation matchup against No. 19 seed Rockland on Wednesday, March 18 at 12 PM EST, as they aim to close out the year on a high note.