Will Bynum's Game-Winning Shot Sends Georgia Tech to NCAA Championship

Strategic Insights -

Georgia Tech guard Will Bynum's clutch layup with 1.5 seconds remaining in the semifinal game against Oklahoma State sent the Yellow Jackets to their first NCAA championship game in school history. Bynum, who scored 11 points off the bench, used a screen by center Luke Schenscher to drive past Oklahoma State's John Lucas and secure the win. The team will face Connecticut on Monday night.

Key Takeaways:

  • Georgia Tech advanced to the NCAA championship game for the first time in school history, overcoming a 65-62 deficit with 28 seconds remaining to defeat Oklahoma State 67-65.
  • Junior guard Will Bynum made the game-winning layup with 1.5 seconds remaining, using a screen by center Luke Schenscher to drive past Oklahoma State's John Lucas.
  • Bynum scored 11 points off the bench and was instrumental in the Yellow Jackets' victory, including a driving, reverse layup that put Tech up for good against Nevada in the Sweet 16.
  • Senior guard Marvin Lewis hit 5 of 8 3-pointers, snapping out of a slump (5-of-20 in the NCAA Tournament), to contribute to Georgia Tech's 37-30 halftime lead.
  • Junior forward Joey Graham added 17 points and 10 rebounds for Oklahoma State, while senior guard John Lucas swished a tying 3-pointer with 28 seconds remaining.
  • Georgia Tech coach Paul Hewitt credited Bynum's decision to transfer from Arizona to Atlanta as a key factor in the team's success, saying "There's no doubt if he's not on our team, we don't get out of the first round."

Statistics:

  • Georgia Tech's final score was 67-65.
  • Will Bynum scored 11 points off the bench.
  • Marvin Lewis had 5 of 8 3-pointers to contribute to Georgia Tech's 37-30 halftime lead.
  • Joey Graham added 17 points and 10 rebounds for Oklahoma State.
  • John Lucas swished a tying 3-pointer with 28 seconds remaining.

Sources:

  • [Associated Press]
  • Georgia Tech's official website
  • NCAA tournament brackets and statistics
  • ESPN NCAA tournament coverage
  • Oklahoma State's official website