Knights remain hopeful for postseason bid entering season finale at West Virginia

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As the final horn echoed through the packed Addition Financial Arena late Wednesday, Darius Johnson sprinted toward the UCF student section, eager to share in the celebration of his incredible night with Knight Nation for possibly the last time.

The senior point guard had just concluded a stunning performance, lighting up the scoreboard with 36 points — 27 in the second half. His electrifying play energized the crowd and propelled the Knights to a 83-70 victory over Oklahoma State on Senior Night.

The moment felt like it came out of a Hollywood screenplay, with Johnson ready and eager to take the lead.

It was one of the few bright spots in an otherwise disappointing season for the Knights.

However, Johnson isn’t ready to let it end there.

“I told the guys in the locker room to just keep this train rolling. The season’s not over yet. We can still find a way even when it seems impossible. So let’s keep pushing through,” Johnson said.

UCF (16-14, 7-12 Big 12) has won three of its last four games but has lost six consecutive road games, with the last victory at Arizona State on Jan. 14. The Knights wrap up the regular season at West Virginia (18-12, 9-10).

“Getting off to a good start is crucial,” UCF coach Johnny Dawkins said, acknowledging that falling behind can give opponents momentum.

UCF has struggled on the road, trailing by double digits in recent games against TCU and Oklahoma State. Despite these challenges, Dawkins believes the Knights are improving.

“We’re playing better. The TCU game was tough, but we can move on from it and focus on the next play,” he said.

Edian Espinal’s 4 RBI power UCF past No. 6 Florida

After allowing nearly 86 points per game during a seven-game losing streak, the Knights have toughed up on defense, allowing 76.8 during the recent four-game stretch.

Johnson also has been on a tear, averaging 22.8 points per game since the losing streak.

The Knights will be without injured guards Jordan Ivy-Curry and Mikey Williams.

Williams, seen…

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Source link : https://sports.yahoo.com/article/knights-remain-hopeful-postseason-bid-170000943.html

Author : Orlando Sentinel

Publish date : 2025-03-07 17:00:00

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