Saint Francis Claims NEC Title, Returns to NCAA Tournament After 34 Years

In a nail-biting Northeast Conference Championship game, Saint Francis University secured a 46-43 victory over Central Connecticut State, marking their first NCAA Tournament appearance since 1991. The game was characterized by a low-scoring struggle, with both teams combining for poor shooting percentages. Daemar Kelly, a key player from Saint Francis, scored a go-ahead jumper with just under 10 seconds remaining, sealing the upset victory despite the team's underdog status and a 15-17 record. This win ends a 34-year drought for the Red Flash, who were previously tied for last place in the conference's preseason poll. The victory also highlighted the team's resilience after being swept by CCSU during the regular season. Saint Francis now prepares for their matchup in the NCAA Tournament, eagerly anticipated for its historical significance.