In a stunning display of resilience and determination, the Army West Point men's basketball team (17-15, 10-8) achieved a monumental victory, securing their first postseason win since 1970. This remarkable feat saw the Black Knights overcome a staggering 21-point second-half deficit to defeat the Elon University Phoenix (17-16, 8-10) by a final score of 83-78 in the opening round of the Purple College Basketball Invitational (CBI).
This victory shatters a 55-year postseason drought for Army, a program that last tasted postseason success in the 1970 National Invitational Tournament (NIT) under the legendary Bob Knight. This win resonates even more profoundly when considering the contrasting physical statures of the two teams. Army, recognized as the NCAA's second shortest team among those who play significant minutes, faced off against Elon, the NCAA's second tallest team. Despite this considerable height disadvantage, the Black Knights displayed unwavering heart and skill.
Army's comeback was nothing short of spectacular. After trailing 51-30 in the second half, the team ignited a furious rally, fueled by exceptional shooting and relentless defense. The Black Knights finished the game shooting 48.4 percent from the floor in the second half and a blistering 56.3 percent from beyond the arc. Overall, they shot 37.1 percent from the field and 35 percent from three-point range.
A crucial factor in Army's victory was their dominance in the turnover battle, forcing 14 Phoenix turnovers while committing only five. This translated to a 13-2 advantage in points off turnovers.
Leading the charge off the bench was Jalen Rucker, who delivered a game-high 27 points and six assists, complemented by two rebounds and two steals. Jorn Everson also had a career-defining performance, scoring a career-high 22 points on 8-12 shooting from the field and 4-7 from three-point range. Ryan Curry contributed 14 points, five rebounds, three assists, and one block.
Other key contributors included Tate Laczkowski with seven points and a team-high nine rebounds, Black Barker with five points, five rebounds, and three assists, AJ Allenspach with four points and seven rebounds, Jacen Holloway with three points, and Kendall Hailey, who sealed the win with a crucial free throw.
How the Historic Comeback Unfolded:
The game began with Army taking an early lead, but Elon quickly seized control, establishing a 20-9 advantage. Despite trailing by nine at halftime (39-30), Army's determination never wavered.
The second half began disastrously, with Elon extending their lead to 51-30. However, Army responded with an incredible 19-2 run, spearheaded by Everson and Rucker, to narrow the gap. Army then took their first lead since the early stages of the game, fueled by clutch performances from Rucker and Everson.
Elon briefly regained the lead, but Army surged ahead once more, establishing a six-point advantage. Despite a late push from Elon, Army held on to secure the historic 83-78 victory.
Up Next:
Army now faces a quick turnaround, preparing for a quarterfinal matchup against the Florida Gulf Coast Eagles. The Eagles, with an 18-14 overall record, will pose another tough challenge for the Black Knights. The game is scheduled for a 2 p.m. tip-off at the Ocean Center and will be streamed live on FloCollege and the Varsity Sports Network.
