On New Year's Day, college basketball took center stage with two remarkable finishes that left fans on the edge of their seats. Northern Kentucky’s Norse narrowly edged out Purdue Fort Wayne in an overtime thriller, while West Virginia secured a historic victory over Kansas at Phog Allen Fieldhouse. Both games showcased incredible drama and unexpected twists, making them memorable starts to the new year.

Northern Kentucky's Comeback Victory

In Highland Heights, Northern Kentucky faced off against Purdue Fort Wayne in a Horizon League matchup. Despite trailing by six points at halftime, the Norse mounted an impressive comeback. The game saw its most dramatic moments in the final minutes, leading to a tied score and an extraordinary finish involving a stuck ball between the rim and backboard. This set the stage for an electrifying overtime period.

The Norse seized the momentum early in overtime, taking a lead of up to four points. However, Purdue Fort Wayne refused to back down, closing the gap and retaking the lead. With just 11 seconds left, Keeyan Itejere delivered a crucial contested basket, securing Northern Kentucky's hard-fought victory. The thrilling conclusion was a fitting way to ring in the New Year, showcasing the team's resilience and determination.

West Virginia's Historic Win at Phog Allen

In Lawrence, Kansas, West Virginia made history by defeating the seventh-ranked Jayhawks in their iconic home arena, Phog Allen Fieldhouse. This marked the Mountaineers' first-ever win at this venue, breaking Kansas's streak of 33 consecutive conference home opener victories. Despite missing two of their top players, West Virginia demonstrated exceptional skill and strategy.

With seconds remaining and the game tied, Javon Small stepped up to the free-throw line. After missing the first shot, he successfully converted the second, leaving Kansas with only 1.8 seconds to respond. The Jayhawks attempted a last-second play but were unable to secure the win. The crowd was stunned as West Virginia emerged victorious, solidifying Darian DeVries' reputation as a coach who can deliver wins against top-tier teams like Gonzaga and Kansas in his debut season.