Jeremy Roach, a former standout player at Duke, made a significant impact in just his fifth game with Baylor by hitting a buzzer-beating 3-pointer to secure a thrilling 99-98 victory over St. John's at the Baha Mar Championship.
The game was a rollercoaster of emotions as Baylor found themselves trailing by two points with seconds left in the second overtime. Roach had a chance to seal the win in regulation but missed a crucial free throw, setting the stage for his redemption with the game-winning shot.
St. John's coach Rick Pitino expressed frustration over what he deemed as unethical behavior by the referees and Baylor's coach, Scott Drew. Pitino argued that a controversial replay review disrupted his team's free-throw shooter, leading to the missed shots that allowed Roach to shine.
The Red Storm squandered a five-point lead in the second overtime after holding an 18-point advantage in the first half. VJ Edgecombe's clutch 3-pointer and Roach's heroics ultimately sealed the dramatic comeback for Baylor.
Riding on his experience as a former team captain at Duke, Roach displayed composure and resilience, finishing with a season-high 20 points for Baylor. Despite his earlier miscue, Roach credited his teammates for their unwavering support and belief in him.
The victory marked a memorable moment for Roach and solidified his impact on his new team, showcasing his ability to rise to the occasion in high-pressure situations.
