CLARION, Pa. – In a dramatic finish, Jordyn Buchanan sank the game-winning three-pointer with less than five seconds on the clock, propelling the California (PA) Vulcans to a 73-71 road victory over Clarion at Tippin Gymnasium on Wednesday night.
The Golden Eagles held a convincing 12-point lead at halftime, extending it to as many as 16 points early in the second half. However, the Vulcans mounted a furious comeback, eventually taking the lead at 68-66 with 2:31 remaining after a jumper by Cam Polak. Clarion responded with
Gavin Cote converting two free throws, tying the game just 20 seconds later.
Cam Kearney then hit a three-pointer from the right corner at the 1:41 mark, giving the Golden Eagles a 71-70 edge.
Clarion appeared poised to secure the win, holding onto the narrow lead when Donald Whitehead Jr. turned the ball over with under 12 seconds remaining. The Vulcans made a big defensive play of their own, forcing a turnover on the ensuing inbounds play and gaining possession for a final shot. Buchanan answered the call, burying a three-pointer to give Cal a 73-71 lead with mere seconds remaining. A desperation half-court attempt by
Trey Nelson fell short as time expired.
The first half was largely controlled by Clarion, who jumped out to a 13-4 lead following a jumper by Kearney. The Golden Eagles maintained a double-digit advantage after
Kendon Peebles converted an and-one play to make it 27-17. Despite a push by the Vulcans, reducing the deficit to four points (36-32) with under three minutes remaining, Clarion finished the half with a 9-1 run, regaining a comfortable cushion. Nelson hit a three-pointer at the 1:05 mark, and Kearney added two free throws to send the Golden Eagles into halftime with a 12-point advantage.
Clarion continued their momentum early in the second half, scoring the first four points to extend their lead to 16 (49-33). However, that would be their largest lead as Cal began their comeback.
Kearney led all scorers with 30 points, connecting on 10-of-17 shots, including four of six from beyond the arc. He also registered five rebounds and two steals. Nelson contributed 13 points, five rebounds, five assists, and three steals for Clarion.
