ASHLAND, VA - Buzz Anthony scored a game high 26 to lead three players in double figures and added 12 assists as Randolph-Macon defeated TCNJ 85-71 to reach the Sweet 16 for the second year in a row.
The Yellow Jackets matched a school record with their 28th win of the season and extended their home winning streak to 27 straight, the longest active streak in Division III.
RMC started the game on a 8-3 run behind three point baskets from Ian Robertson and Korey Turner.
The Lions didn't blink after they fell behind early. TCNJ led 40-39 at the half after Mike Walley hit a three-pointer right before the 1st half buzzer.
"I know Buzz {Anthony} challenged a group at halftime," said RMC Head Coach Josh Merkel. "We know our defense is better and more capable."
Randolph-Macon went cold from the field near the end of the first half. RMC made only three field goals in the final 6:07 in the half.
Anthony, the reigning ODAC Player of the Year, scored 17 points in the second half, including eight in a 17-2 run by the Yellow Jackets that saw Randolph-Macon take a 73-56 lead after they trailed 50-49.
"He challenged some guys, pushed some buttons," Coach Merkel explained. "But we got stops down the stretch. Buzz and Ian {Robertson} played their strengths and made plays down the stretch.
The Lions stayed in the game due to their 56% shooting from behind the three-point line. Randall Walko hit four three-pointers and scored a team-high 23 points for TCNJ.
"You have to really give a lot of credit to the College of New Jersey," Merkel stated. "Unbelievable team. Well coached, playing as well as anybody as I've played against."
Freshman Miles Mallory added 19 along with seven rebounds and Ian Robertson chipped in with 17 points for Randolph-Macon.
After shooting 44% from the field in the first half, the Yellow Jackets 54% from the field after halftime and outscored the Lions 46-31.
The Yellow Jackets will host #13 Yeshiva in the Round of 16 Friday afternoon at 2pm. The game is sold out to the general public.
