Despite Tsung-Hsien "Jet" Chang netting a game-best 35 points, the No. 2-seeded Bellarmine University, edged No. 7-seeded BYU-Hawaii University, 71-68, in a thrilling NCAA Division II men's basketball National Championship game in Springfield, MA. The game's ending featured five turnovers in the last minute, but finished with the Knights earn their first National Title.
Chris Dowe and Jeremy Kendle each scored a team-best 16 points for No. 2-seeded Bellarmine (33-2), which beat Minnesota State to advance to its first ever championship game. Kendle also finished with six rebounds and four assists.
Chang, who netted 43 points in 110-101 semifinal victory over top-seeded West Liberty University, made 12of-20 shots, but made three turnovers in the closing moments to end the Seasiders season that ends with a 22-9 overall record.
There as not a lot of defense played in this season finale as each team attempted 25 3-pointers. The Knights made just eight, while the Seasiders 12. Bellarmine outrebounded BYU-Hawaii, 40-34, and committed less turnovers, 17-13.
Bellarmine is located in Louisville, KY.