During the second round of the ASUN tournament, UNA played against their newfound rival Austin Peay. The game started with an APSU lead, but UNA quickly steeled themselves and put up an unrelenting offense finishing at 64-90. Jacari Lane put up 31 of those points himself. Corneilous Williams also brought the fire, recording over 14 rebounds during the 40 minute battle. The student section was ablaze with UNA fans support, selling out CB&S bank arena 10 minutes after the tickets went on sale. After a complete shut-out from the Lions, the coaches shook hands, and UNA’s tournament run began.
Three days later, the Jacksonville Dolphins came to Florence. Again, the arena was filled to capacity, with UNA’s student section loudly showing their support. The game was closer than against APSU, but the Lions still pulled a decisive victory. Lane was again at the top of the leaderboard, not to discount the rest of the team who pulled their weight. All five starters scored double digits. Williams also continued his rebound streak, bouncing the ball 12 times total.
After the game, the concurrently running Lipscomb v Queens game was broadcasted on CB&S Bank Arena’s jumbotrons. Lions fans stood on the court staring at the game that would decide who hosts the final leg of the tournament. Breaths were held, prayers said, and finally, Lipscomb overcame Queens 81-75. Despite losing the home-court advantage, UNA was optimistic of their chances. Knowing their enemy, the Lions trekked to Nashville to face their destiny.
Music city was electric on March 9th, the final round of the tournament was upon us. The arena was full. The fans were rabid. The Bison and the Lion faced each other for the final time. Lipscomb got an early lead, shutting out any of UNA’s attempts to control the court. After halftime, the Lion’s seemed to get a grip on the situation, but they never stole the lead. Jacari Lane was again the Lion’s MVP, scoring 18 with 6 rebounds. However, the Bison’s Joe Anderson was just better, scoring 23 with 5 rebounds and 4 assists. While it was a close game at points, UNA just couldn’t pull it off, ending the game 65-76.
This was the Lions 2nd ASUN championship appearance since the move to Division I seven years ago. In the aftermath of this season, Jacari Lane and Taye Fields were nominated to the All-ASUN Tournament Team.
But that’s not all for the lions this season. On Sunday March 16th, UNA was selected for the National Invitation Tournament. They played Bradley on March 19th, scores are available online. Bradley is 26-8 overall with a 15-5 record in the MVC.
