Just under four seconds left on the clock in a tied game, and Slippery Rock men’s basketball has their hero.
Redshirt sophomore Jomo Goings put the team on his back in the game’s bleeding moments by registering the game-winning bucket.
However, Goings’ excellent performance came well before the win. The Washington, D.C. native was the leading contributor in Slippery Rock erasing an eight-point deficit.
The 6-foot-4 guard posted an impressive statline headlined by a 19-point performance. He also tallied a steal, rebound, assist and two blocks.
His offensive and defensive leadership propelled The Rock over Pennsylvania State Athletic Conference (PSAC) foe, Seton Hill University, 71-69.
Besides Goings, players up and down the lineup for both sides showed out to produce the ultimate playoff battle.
The Griffins had five players go for eight or more points while The Rock had four of their own.
Maceo Austin also helped SRU during his 37 minutes of playing time. The graduate student went for 16 points, nine rebounds, six assists, two steals and a block.
Austin’s season-long partner-in-crime, Lashon Lindsey also had himself a game. The 6-foot-8 forward brought down 15 rebounds, five points, five assists and two steals.
With the lead changing 13 times, it was inevitable that spectators were in for an all-time classic.
Seton Hill looked to control the second half and pull away on the road. The Griffins deflated The Rock with their 12-0 run just over midway through the second frame.
A resilient Rock fought until the end, just as they have all season, to scrape out the victory and eliminate the six-seed Seton Hill.
“I think everyone this year has taken their turn at coming up big,” Head Coach Ian Grady said. “Not just with baskets but timely plays, so I have ultimate trust in all of our players.”
Grady and his squad now move to 13-1 record at Morrow Field House, a place that has been defended excellently all year by the players and their fans.
“The fans are one of the things that make Morrow Field House a special place to play,” Grady said. “You can’t ask for a better atmosphere for our players or our team, it’s electric out there.”
Despite the immaculate home record, the White and Green have experienced their woes on the road this season. The squad’s away record currently stands at 3-12.
The next hurdle The Rock must jump to continue their season will be the California (Pa.) Vulcans.
The two split the season series with wins at home for each side. Unfortunately for SRU, the Vulcans will maintain home court due to their number two seed.
The Rock looks to use their energetic first-round victory to triumph over a goliath foe.
Tip-off takes place from California, Pa. at 6 p.m. Wednesday, March 6 where both teams will look to keep their dreams alive.
