In a thrilling display of determination, the Wilfrid Laurier University’s men’s basketball team pulled off one of the most exhilarating comebacks of the season, defeating the Ontario Tech University Ridgebacks in a game that kept fans on the edge of their seats until the very last second.
From the opening tip, it was clear Laurier was in for a tough game. Ontario Tech dominated the first quarter with fast-paced offense and solid defense. Despite early fouls, fourth-year guard Taye Donald drew key free throws contributing most of Laurier’s points. However, the Golden Hawks struggled to adjust defensively, and Ontario Tech ended the first quarter leading 16-9.
The second quarter saw Laurier facing an even steeper challenge. Ontario Tech extended their lead to 25-37 by halftime. Despite some positive individual efforts, the Golden Hawks were unable to string together enough counter-attacking plays to close the gap.
The third quarter marked a shift in momentum. Laurier came out with renewed intensity, especially on defense. Taye Donald began to speed up the game, scoring several quick baskets to reduce the deficit to 30-45. His scoring burst kept Laurier in the game, but it was clear that the team needed to work cohesively. Laurier’s defense picked up with key stops, including a critical block and rebound sequence in the final minutes of the third. Even so, Laurier trailed 52-43 heading into the final quarter.
As the fourth quarter began, Laurier’s defense ramped up.The Golden Hawks’ transition defense became suffocating, with Ontario Tech’s Zubair Seyed spending more time running the floor than seeking out shot opportunities. Laurier forced turnovers and capitalized in transition, with Donald and Ethan Passley leading the charge.
With two minutes left, the score was tied 63-63, and the cluster of Ontario Tech supporters were rowdy in the stands. With just 20 seconds remaining, the ball was in the hands of first year forward Aidan Whalen, who had been exceptional on defense throughout the game. As the shot clock wound down, Whalen was fouled and sent to the free-throw line for two shots.
Whalen sank the first free throw, getting Laurier its first lead of the night with a score of 64-63. In a tactical move, he deliberately missed the second free throw to prevent Ontario Tech from regaining possession. The strategy worked, and Laurier retained possession, denying Ontario Tech a final shot.
After the game, head coach Cavell Johnson shared his thoughts on the team’s composure and resilience while navigating the challenges of his first season at Laurier. “We have a good group of guys who don’t panic and continue to play strong. My biggest goal this season has been to help the players grow in confidence, both as individuals and as a team,” Johnson said.
Fourth-year OUA All-Star Taye Donald shared his mindset going into the fourth. “We knew we had to speed up. In terms of offense, we knew we were down and had to get out. It was all about turning the pressure up,” he said.
What started as a tough game quickly turned into a dramatic comeback for the Golden Hawks. With key performances from Donald, Whalen and Passley, Laurier showed they are ready to overcome any challenge—no matter how big the deficit.
