Box Score

NORFOLK, Va., March 5, 2018 -- Davaris McGowens converted two free throws with 2.3 seconds left in overtime to help North Carolina A&T State avoid the upset in a 62-61 win over Delaware State in the first round of the Mid-Eastern Athletic Conference (MEAC) Basketball Tournament at the Norfolk Scope Arena.

After the Hornets (4-28) took a 61-59 lead on a basket by Simon Okolue, with 1:05 remaining, the Aggies (19-13) got a free throw from Denzel Keyes on the ensuing possession to cut the deficit to 61-60 with 28 seconds remaining in the extra period.

Delaware State, the No. 13 seed, attempted to run out the clock but North Carolina A&T State gained possession and McGowens was fouled and sent to the line where he calmly sank both attempts.

The Hornets called a timeout and attempted a long pass but they failed to get off a shot as the No. 4 seed escaped to advance to the quarterfinal round against the winner of the Norfolk State-Maryland Eastern Shore game on Thursday at 8 p.m.

The game featured mini runs by both teams, as neither was able to establish control. Delaware State opened a 21-10 lead over the first 12 minutes before the Aggies put together a 19-9 run to close the half and get to within 30-29 at intermission.

The second half and overtime featured eight lead changes and 12 ties. Delaware State was led by Okolue, who tallied a game-high 20 points and Kavon Waller who chipped in with 11.

The Aggies were led by Femi Olujobi who had 15 points and McGowens who added 14.