STLCC Stuns Illinois Central 71–70 With Last-Second Heroics
The sports cliché "snatching victory out of the jaws of defeat" has rarely been more fitting than it was Thursday night at Archer Gym, where St. Louis Community College completed a stunning comeback to defeat Illinois Central College, 71–70.
Trailing by four points with just 11 seconds remaining, the Archers delivered a dramatic sequence that will be remembered for years. Sophomore guard Zac Goss drilled a deep 3-pointer to pull STLCC within one. After a quick defensive stand, freshman point guard Miyel Taylor secured the ball and launched a last-second half-court attempt—getting fouled with 0.3 seconds left. Showing remarkable composure, Taylor knocked down all three free throws to seal the one‑point win.
Balanced scoring and grit power STLCC
Goss paced STLCC with a game-high 24 points, shooting a sharp 4-of-6 from beyond the arc while adding three assists. Sophomore forward Darric Smith contributed 13 points and six rebounds, and Taylor finished with 12 points, including his game-winning free throws.
Sophomore guard CJ Lang played a crucial all-around role, leading the Archers with seven rebounds and three steals to help anchor the defensive effort.
STLCC held a 29–24 halftime lead before Illinois Central tied the game early in the second half. The contest remained tightly contested until ICC appeared to seize momentum with a steal and dunk, taking a two-point lead with 20 seconds remaining. A second defensive takeaway by the Cougars led to two free throws, establishing the four-point advantage that the Archers ultimately erased in the dramatic closing seconds.
Coach Collins: "We refused to give in."
Head Coach Terry Collins praised the team's resilience and mental toughness:
"We have lost five games this season on the last possession, but the team did not give in to the 'here we go again' syndrome when the Cougars took the lead with 20 seconds to go. We certainly were fortunate to get the win, but we will take it after so many heartbreaking losses. Nevertheless, we still have to find the right formula for stretching out our halftime leads and not put ourselves in a position where one possession can make the difference."
STLCC Honors Hall of Fame Coaches at Halftime
During halftime of Thursday's game, STLCC proudly honored two Hall of Fame coaching legends—Coach Randy Albrecht and Coach Shelly Ethridge—both recognized for their lasting contributions to the college's basketball legacy.
Coach Randy Albrecht reflected on the recognition:
"It's always special to return to STLCC. This program has a proud history, and seeing the current generation compete with such heart reminds me why coaching here was so meaningful. I'm grateful to be honored and thrilled to witness such an exciting game."
Coach Shelly Ethridge shared her appreciation:
"STLCC will always feel like home. I'm humbled by this recognition and inspired by the passion these student‑athletes bring to the court. It's wonderful to see the tradition of excellence continue."