Boston University Upsets Navy Amid Clock Controversy
In a thrilling yet controversial finish, Boston University upset Navy 73-72 on Sunday, earning a spot in the Patriot League Tournament championship game. The match was marred by a notable clock-related error that impacted the final moments.
Game Clock Controversy
The incident occurred when the game clock operator failed to start the clock promptly after Boston University inbounded the ball. Once the pass was made, the clock read 3.6 seconds but did not begin counting down immediately, seemingly delaying by more than a second.
Realizing the mistake, referees reviewed the situation while examining replay footage. After deliberation, the officials decided to add 0.6 seconds back onto the clock. Referee Sean Hull explained, “After further review, we have to put time on the clock. It did not start appropriately.”
Final Moments
Following the clock adjustment, Boston University’s Chance Gladden received the inbounds pass. He launched a long-range shot from 40 feet, sealing the victory just before the buzzer. Navy attempted a final shot but missed, leading to the heartbreaking loss at home.
Navy’s Season Overview
This defeat ended Navy’s impressive 14-game winning streak and substantially diminished their chances of a bid in the NCAA Tournament. With an overall record of 26-7 and an outstanding 17-1 in conference play, Navy had one of their best seasons, matching their win total from the 1986-87 season.
- Season Record: 26-7
- Conference Record: 17-1
- Winning Streak: 14 games
Implications for Boston University
This upset places Boston University in the Patriot League Tournament final, where they will face Lehigh, the No. 2 seed. The Terriers aim to secure their first Patriot League Tournament title and a coveted spot in the NCAA Tournament.
