The men of Johnson C. Smith came into the Friday night game hoping to join their female counterparts in the championship game on Saturday. They took on the dark horse, Virgina State.
But a slow start seemed to spell an upset, as VSU took a five point lead and out-rebounded the 2008 champions.
With 9:48 in the first half, Smith began showing flashes of what got them to 20 wins this season as they began forcing turnovers and getting offensive rebounds.
Still, VSU led the Golden Bulls 22 to 16.
Side Fashion note: Cheerleaders should not do stripper moves on the floor or wear glitter lotion.
Just as it looked as if the Golden Bulls were about take the lead, a costly turnover gave VSU a three-point advantage. With 1:46 left in the first half, Smith cut into the VSU lead and played tough defense. They were only down by two points.
But, VSU wouldn't stop their press. They contested every shot and forced turnovers as it looked like JC Smith was about to go on a run.
Side fashion note: Velvet sport coats don't look good on anybody, especially the big and tall man.
At halftime, Steve Harvey took the floor and thanked the fans. He also apologized for missing his show this morning to go tape Oprah and said, "I ain't never been that close to a billionaire before, I was thinking about tongue kissing her today."
Score at halftime: JCSU: 30 VSU: 32
The second half started with a dunk and a tie score. It looked as if JC Smith was about to make a big run, but turnovers got in the way. Defense and rebounding kept the game close.
With 14:23 in the second half, JC Smith took a 41 to 35 lead. But they didn't keep it long as VSU began hitting the three-point shot and took a one point lead with 11:43 left in the game.
Then JC Smith when on an 4-0 run, taking a four-point lead with 7:51 left in the game. The lead expanded to six with 5:11 left in the game, but free throws by VSU made it interesting.
Side fashion note: If the shoes hurt your feet hurt, they aren't cute.
VSU wouldn't lay down for the champs, with 2:10 left in the game, they cut the lead to two. But a three pointer from JC Smith expanded the lead.
As the last seconds of the game ticked away, it was clear that the CIAA finals would again be an all-JCSU affair.
Final score:
JC Smith: 63 VSU: 56