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UMBC’s historic 20-point win over no. 1 seed University of Virginia last Friday gave the Retrievers a taste of NCAA victory. Two days and one Sports Illustrated cover later, UMBC battled Kansas State in a nail-biting, neck-and-neck second round contest. The Retrievers trailed the Wildcats by just one point for much of the game, eventually ceding to Kansas State, 43-50 (see ESPN recap).
Just after Friday’s round one victory, NCAA’s Kyle Boone suggested, “Jairus Lyles was the best player on the floor…and he likely will be again come Sunday when they take on the Wildcats.”
Lyles ‘17, sociology, M.A. ‘18, education, indeed led the Retrievers with twelve points, six rebounds and four assists. Game announcers recognized UMBC’s drive and stamina in fighting through a tough game right up to the end, scoring one final shot as the buzzer rang out.
As the game came to a close, fans in Charlotte and around the globe, shared their love for the team, and gratitude for an inspiring NCAA run.
Congratulations on a terrific season @UMBCAthletics. You made all of Baltimore proud this week.
— Baltimore Ravens (@Ravens) March 19, 2018
It wasn’t the ending we were rooting for, but you made BMore proud! Can’t wait to host the @UMBC_MBB team at Oriole Park this summer and celebrate your historic season.