Lehigh University Triumphs in Patriot League Tournament Final
In a commanding performance, Lehigh University triumphed over Boston University with a score of 74-60 in the Patriot League Tournament final held in Bethlehem, Pennsylvania. This victory secures Lehigh, the second seed, a spot in the NCAA Tournament for the first time since 2012.
Key Players and Performances
Nasir Whitlock led the charge for Lehigh, contributing 18 points, while teammates Joshua Ingram and Edouard Benoit each added 15 points to the scoreboard. Hank Alvey also made a significant impact, finishing the game with 14 points, 9 rebounds, 5 assists, and 2 blocks.
Game Highlights
Early in the game, Lehigh took control after a sequence where Ingram sank a 3-pointer followed by a step-back jumper from Whitlock, shifting the tide to 13-12 and allowing them to maintain the lead thereafter.
For Boston University, which ended the season with a record of 17-17, Ben Defty stood out with a solid 21-point performance, successfully hitting 8 of 11 shots, and secured 8 rebounds. He was supported by Michael McNair, who added 14 points, along with Chance Gladden who contributed 11 and Donte Tisinger Jr. who chipped in with 10 points.
Notably, Gladden had a moment of glory recently, hitting a long-range 3-pointer at the buzzer to upset the top-seeded Navy in the semifinals.
Looking Ahead
The Terriers previously claimed the conference tournament championship in 2020, but their chance to compete in the NCAA Tournament that year was thwarted by the pandemic. Looking forward, Lehigh will now be anticipating details regarding their seeding and match for the upcoming NCAA Tournament while Boston University concludes its season with this loss.