East Michigan News

Jalen Terry's dramatic 35-foot buzzer-beater secured a win for Eastern Michigan University (EMU) against Northern Illinois University (NIU) with a final score of 79-76. The game, held at the NIU Convocation Center, saw EMU overcome significant deficits throughout, including an 11-point gap in the second half and a seven-point deficit with just over a minute remaining.

Terry, who hails from Flint, Michigan, led his team with 28 points. His performance was pivotal in achieving this crucial Mid-American Conference victory despite NIU setting a program record by hitting 15 three-pointers during the game.

The contest began with Eastern establishing an early lead before NIU took control with an 11-2 run. By halftime, NIU had extended their advantage to ten points. However, Eastern quickly closed the gap after halftime and eventually tied the game within four minutes into the second half.

The lead fluctuated as both teams exchanged scoring runs. With less than two minutes left on the clock and trailing by nine points, Eastern mounted a decisive comeback culminating in Terry's game-winning shot.

Eastern's statistics included shooting 42% from the field and converting nearly 41% of their three-point attempts. Notably, Terry's consistent high-scoring performances have seen him average over 28 points per game across his last four outings.

Additional contributions came from Da'Sean Nelson with 19 points and Christian Henry adding ten points alongside six assists. Jalin Billingsley contributed nine points and eight rebounds to help secure the victory.

This win marks EMU's first road victory at Northern Illinois after four consecutive losses there. The Eagles now hold a balanced conference record of seven wins and seven losses for the first time since the 2018-19 season.

Eastern will host Bowling Green State University next at George Gervin GameAbove Center on February 25th.