Bonnies’ Thrilling Comeback: St. Bonaventure Advances in A-10 Tournament!

Washington D.C. – In a stunning display of resilience and determination, the St. Bonaventure Bonnies overcame a daunting 13-point deficit to defeat the Duquesne Dukes 64-59 in the Atlantic 10 Tournament on March 13, 2025. This thrilling victory not only marked a significant comeback for the Bonnies, who entered the tournament as the No. 8 seed, but also advanced them to the next round, where they will face off against the top-seeded VCU Rams.

The game started with Duquesne asserting control, quickly building a substantial lead. However, the Bonnies showcased their fighting spirit, rallying back in the second half to secure the win. Head coach Mark Schmidt emphasized the importance of this victory, stating, “Winning the first game in the tournament is crucial. It builds confidence and momentum, and we certainly needed that today.”

Key players played pivotal roles in the comeback, particularly Melvin Council Jr., whose three consecutive steals shifted the momentum in favor of St. Bonaventure. With just over four minutes left in the game, the Bonnies held Duquesne to no field goals, outscoring them 13-1 during that critical stretch. This defensive stand was a testament to the team’s grit and determination.

Noel Brown, a standout performer throughout the season, contributed significantly to the team’s scoring in the paint, reinforcing the Bonnies’ reputation as a formidable offensive unit. St. Bonaventure ranked third in the A-10 for points scored in the paint, with Brown averaging 8.7 points per game. His presence under the basket was crucial in the comeback effort.

The atmosphere in the arena was electric, with Bonnies’ fans traveling to Washington D.C. to support their team. Their unwavering support energized the players, especially during the tense moments of the second half. “Our fans were incredible today,” Brown remarked. “They really pushed us to dig deep and fight for every point.”

The victory over Duquesne is particularly noteworthy as it eliminated the reigning A-10 champions from the tournament. This unexpected upset serves as a reminder of the unpredictability of tournament play, where lower-seeded teams can achieve surprising results. The Bonnies’ performance in this game has undoubtedly highlighted their potential to make a deep run in the tournament.

As they prepare to face the VCU Rams, the Bonnies will need to bring their A-game. St. Bonaventure previously faced VCU twice during the regular season, winning one game (77-75) and losing the other (75-61). This sets the stage for a competitive rematch, as both teams are familiar with each other’s strengths and weaknesses.

The VCU Rams are known for their strong shooting and athleticism, boasting the conference player of the year on their roster. This upcoming match promises to be a significant challenge for the Bonnies, who will need to maintain their defensive intensity and capitalize on offensive opportunities.

In conclusion, the St. Bonaventure Bonnies’ thrilling comeback against Duquesne not only showcased their resilience but also provided a much-needed boost of confidence as they advance in the A-10 Tournament. With their sights set on VCU, the Bonnies are ready to embrace the challenge ahead, fueled by their recent success and the unwavering support of their fans. As the tournament continues, one thing is clear: the Bonnies have proven that they are a force to be reckoned with.

The journey is far from over, and the excitement surrounding St. Bonaventure basketball is palpable. Fans will be eagerly watching as the Bonnies aim for further success in the tournament, hoping to write the next chapter in their remarkable season.