Norfolk State bounces back, upsets Alabama in NIT first round

It’s not about the rocky journey, but the wonderful destination.

Eighth-seeded Norfolk State visited one-seed Alabama for the first round of the NIT Tournament and left with a gritty overtime victory, 80-79.

Spartans turn the ball over, but Alabama cannot get a great shot off. @NSU_BBALL wins 80-79 over Alabama tonight!!!

Derrik Jamerson Jr. with 25 points to lead the way in the upset! pic.twitter.com/JscyFyxyyL

— Norfolk State Athletics (@NSUSpartans) March 21, 2019

It was not the easiest or prettiest path to victory for the Spartans and the win was never certain, down to the (second) final buzzer.

NSU had a chance to win the game tied at 67 with three seconds left in regulation, but couldn’t get two lay-ups in the paint to fall. A turnover from the NSU with five seconds left in OT almost gave the game to Bama, but the shot would not fall in the SEC squad’s favor.

NSU surely felt good for coming away with a win in a close game after dropping a last-second heartbreaker to North Carolina Central in the MEAC title game on Saturday.

Derrik Jamerson led the Spartans with 25 points off the bench. NSU advances to Round Two and will face fourth-seeded Colorado.

#8 Norfolk State upsets #1 Alabama in overtime to advance to the second round of the NIT.#NIT | #NorfolkStatepic.twitter.com/3rGyBUmO4H

— CBB Kings (@CBBKings) March 21, 2019

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