In a tightly contested and defensively dominated matchup, Seton Hall emerged victorious against Georgetown with a final score of 51-47. This hard-fought win, achieved despite trailing at halftime, marks the eighth time this season the Pirates have rallied from a deficit after the break. The game, characterized by low offensive output from both sides, saw Seton Hall maintain its hopes for the NCAA Tournament with this critical conference win.
The game unfolded as a true defensive showcase in Newark. Seton Hall's offensive struggles were evident, particularly from beyond the arc, where they failed to convert any of their 18 attempts. Despite these challenges, their tenacious defense proved to be the decisive factor. Najai Hines was a standout performer for the Pirates, achieving the only double-double of the game with 12 points and 10 rebounds, leading his team in scoring.
Georgetown, now facing a four-game losing streak, initially held a comfortable 27-20 lead at halftime. However, their inability to close out close games continued, as they now possess a 1-6 record in contests decided by four points or fewer. A pivotal moment occurred in the final seconds when KJ Lewis of Georgetown, with his team trailing 49-46, missed a crucial second free throw, leading to a possession change that ultimately benefited Seton Hall.
Seton Hall's Adam 'Budd' Clark sealed the victory with two clutch free throws in the dwindling moments, pushing their lead to a safe margin. The contest set a season-low in total points for both teams, highlighting the intense defensive pressure exerted throughout the game. Georgetown's shooting percentage stood at 27.3%, while Seton Hall's was marginally better at 30.9%, underscoring the offensive difficulties faced by both squads.
The initial stages of the game saw both teams struggling to find their rhythm, with Seton Hall missing their first five shots and Georgetown converting only two of their first eleven. After an early stalemate, Seton Hall found a brief offensive spark, taking an 16-11 lead midway through the first half with contributions from Clark, Stephon Payne, Parker, and AJ Staton McCray. However, Georgetown quickly countered with a dominant 16-1 run, led by Julius Halaifonua, to take a commanding lead into halftime.
Ultimately, Seton Hall's resilience and defensive fortitude allowed them to overcome their shooting woes and Georgetown's strong first-half performance. This pivotal victory underscores the team's ability to grind out wins in challenging circumstances, further solidifying their position as they aim for a spot in the NCAA Tournament.