We just witnessed a Southern Conference title game for the ages. Wofford, the No. 6 seed, pulled off a stunning comeback against Furman, and let me tell you, Jackson Sivills was the maestro conducting this late-game symphony.
In a chaotic, heart-pounding finish, Wofford stormed back to defeat Furman 92-85, securing their spot in the Big Dance. And the story? Fifth-year senior Jackson Sivills, who dropped a career-high 20 points, including the go-ahead three-pointer that sent the Terriers faithful into a frenzy.
Think about it: down 83-79 with just 2:34 left, the tension was thick enough to cut with a knife. Kyler Filewich's layup sparked the comeback, but it was Sivills' clutch triple that flipped the script, putting Wofford ahead for good in a game-ending 15-2 run. This wasn't just a win; it was a statement.
Sivills, nailing 6 of 9 shots with four crucial 3-pointers, was the sparkplug Wofford needed. This victory marks Wofford's sixth trip to the NCAA tournament, a return to the promised land after their last title in 2018-19. They've got that championship pedigree, with four titles between 2009 and 2015, and they proved it again tonight.
But let's give credit where it's due. This wasn't a one-man show. Justin Bailey chipped in with 19 points and seven boards, while Dillon Bailey (no relation) added 15, with he and Justin combining for 7 of 12 from deep. Filewich contributed 13 points and six rebounds, and Corey Tripp stuffed the stat sheet with 11 points, 8 assists, and 6 rebounds. It was a true team effort.
Furman, aiming for their eighth tournament title and first since their 2022-23 run, fought tooth and nail. PJay Smith Jr. led the charge with 27 points, including four 3-pointers and a perfect 11-for-11 from the free-throw line. Nick Anderson added 15, and Garrett Hien and Charles Johnston scored 13 and 12, respectively, before fouling out. Cooper Bowser also contributed 11.
The game was a rollercoaster. Wofford jumped out to an early lead, but Furman battled back, taking a 37-35 advantage into halftime, thanks in part to Johnston's late three. Smith's four-point play in the first half was a highlight, and he was perfect from the field.
Ultimately, though, this night belonged to Wofford and Jackson Sivills. The Terriers punched their ticket to the NCAA tournament, and they did it in dramatic fashion. You can bet they'll be a team to watch come March Madness. And for Furman, who dominated the 1970's, this one stings, but they put on a worthy fight.
