In one of the most shocking results of the season, Central Michigan pulled off a stunning 87-85 upset over Kent State at McGuirk Arena. The Chippewas, ranked 333 in the net rankings, took down the 140th-ranked Golden Flashes, defying all expectations. This monumental victory will send shockwaves through the college basketball world, as Central Michigan proved they can hang with a top-tier team.
The game was a back-and-forth affair, with both teams trading baskets and playing tenacious defense. At halftime, Central Michigan held a slim 49-43 lead, thanks in large part to Phat Phat Brooks' 12 first-half points. The Chippewas' high-octane offense continued to click in the second half, with Brooks finishing with 20 points on the night. Keenan Garner and Tamario Adley also made significant contributions, scoring 16 and 15 points, respectively, to help seal the win.
On the other side, Kent State's Jahari Williamson was unstoppable, pouring in 23 points and grabbing 5 rebounds. Morgan Safford added 20 points and 7 rebounds, while Cian Medley chipped in with 14 points and 8 assists. Despite their best efforts, the Golden Flashes couldn't overcome the Chippewas' balanced attack and stifling defense.
The significance of this upset cannot be overstated. Central Michigan, with a record of 6-15, was not expected to give Kent State, 16-5, a run for their money. However, the Chippewas' impressive performance will undoubtedly boost their confidence and morale. This win will also serve as a wake-up call for Kent State, who may have underestimated their opponents.
With no pre-game prediction available, this result is all the more surprising. Central Michigan's victory will be a Quadrant 3 win, a significant addition to their resume. Conversely, this loss will be a Quadrant 4 defeat for Kent State, which may hurt their tournament chances. The Golden Flashes must regroup and refocus to avoid another slip-up.
As the season progresses, this upset will be remembered as one of the most notable of the year. Central Michigan's ability to take down a ranked opponent will be a feather in their cap, and they want to build on this momentum. For Kent State, this loss serves as a reminder that every game counts, and they cannot afford to take any team lightly. The implications of this result will be felt for the remainder of the season, as both teams navigate their respective conference schedules. Central Michigan's monumental upset will undoubtedly have a lasting impact on their tournament chances, and they want to capitalize on this momentum to make a push for the postseason.