SAINT-LAURENT, Que. – For the first time since 1997, the Durham Lords are heading to the CCAA Men's Basketball Championship final. In a thrilling semifinal matchup against Jean-de-Brébeuf, the Lords delivered a resilient performance, securing an 85-82 victory and earning their shot at national gold.
After a slow start that saw Durham trailing 36-30 at halftime, the Lords found their rhythm in the third quarter, outscoring their opponents 30-23 to seize momentum.
With the game hanging in the balance, Durham's ability to capitalize on second-chance opportunities and control the paint proved decisive, as they outscored Brébeuf 44-28 in the key.
Mark Stoop led the way with a stellar 18-point performance, hitting key shots to fuel Durham's comeback while adding seven rebounds and three assists.
Rudy Fakih contributed 15 points, five assists, and two steals, knocking down two crucial three-pointers and earned player of the game honours.
Javade Marne dominated inside, recording a double-double with 13 points and 10 rebounds, while also collecting four steals and a block. Miles Hall added 13 points, four assists, and a three-pointer, playing a pivotal role in the Lords' second-half surge.
Caleb Carter provided a spark off the bench, scoring 10 points on three made triples, while Zach Morris chipped in with eight points, four rebounds, and two blocks.
Durham's defensive intensity was on full display, forcing 18 turnovers and converting them into 19 points. The Lords' dominance on the glass, particularly their 18 offensive rebounds, kept them in control as they clawed their way to the program's biggest win in nearly three decades.
As the final seconds ticked away, the Lords locked in defensively, denying Brébeuf a clean look at a potential game-tying shot. With the buzzer sounding, the celebration was on—Durham is officially back in the national championship game.
Awaiting the Lords in the final is a chance to etch their names in history, just as the 1997 team did before them. With one more win, Durham can complete their journey and bring home a long-awaited national title.
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