Grambling State secured its first-ever NCAA Tournament victory in program history by defeating Montana State 88-81 in a thrilling First Four matchup on Wednesday night. Trailing by 14 points at one stage, the Tigers mounted a remarkable comeback led by Jimel Cofer's explosive second-half performance, where he scored all 19 of his points.
The Southwestern Athletic Conference champions, with a season record of 21-14, now advance as the No. 16 seed in the Midwest Region to face top-seeded Purdue on Friday in Indianapolis.
Grambling State coach Donte’ Jackson expressed his elation at the team's resilience, stating, “Incredible. That's what March is made of, baby. You got to find a way to fight, stay in the game, and have that one last run.”
Despite Montana State's efforts, including Robert Ford III's impressive 26-point performance, they fell short in overtime as Grambling State capitalized on free throws to secure the win.
Grambling State's journey to this historic victory was marked by a second-half surge, erasing a halftime deficit of 42-33 with a 21-6 run. Cofer, who didn't see action in the first half, played a pivotal role in the comeback, ultimately leading his team to victory.
The Tigers' depth was evident with four players scoring in double figures, showcasing their ability to adapt and execute under pressure. Cofer's clutch performance in the second half and overtime was instrumental in propelling Grambling State to this milestone win.
Reflecting on the significance of this achievement, Jackson emphasized the impact on the program, stating, “What this means for our program, it’s an understatement, to be totally honest.”
Grambling State's historic win marks a significant moment in their 47-year history, underscoring the dedication and perseverance of the team. Cofer's standout performance, combined with the team's resilience and depth, propelled them to this memorable victory.
As they prepare to face Purdue in the next round, Grambling State will carry the momentum of this historic win, setting the stage for an exciting matchup in the NCAA Tournament.
