Sangamon Sun

Josh Harris secured a dramatic victory for Illinois College (IC) with a last-second three-point shot, leading the team to a 59-57 win over Dubuque in the opening round of the 2024 NCAA Tournament. The game took place at Washington University Field House in St. Louis.

The Blueboys celebrated their first-ever NCAA Tournament win, advancing with a season record of 24-4. Dubuque concluded its season with a 21-7 record. IC will face the winner of the Washington University versus Wisconsin Lutheran matchup tomorrow at 6:50 p.m.

Seniors Jake Mazrimas and Jahkeis Tippett were pivotal for IC, each scoring 18 points. Mazrimas also led the team with nine rebounds, while Tippett collected eight. Josh Harris contributed significantly with 14 points, including his game-winning shot.

With only 2.2 seconds left on the clock and trailing by one point, Buzz Ritzel passed the ball to Harris near half-court. Harris made a single dribble, spun towards the basket, and launched a shot from approximately 35 feet out. The successful attempt triggered celebrations among the Blueboys' bench and supporters as time expired.