Cincinnati pulls off heart-stopping overtime win against Purdue

Tying the game on a last second layup at the end of regulation, Cincinnati was able to hold off Purdue in overtime to win the game 66-65.

Missed free throws and missed opportunities cost Purdue a spot in the round of 32. Jon Octeus missed two key shots from the line in the last minute to leave the door open just enough for the Bearcats to walk through.

After Purdue took a seven point lead with 48 seconds remaining, Cincinatti was able to chip away at the lead, setting the stage for a Troy Caupain game-tying layup at the buzzer.

Billed as a defensive battle from the start, this game ended up having more offense and excitement than anyone anticipated. 

It looked like the Boilermakers would walk away with it after leading scorer, rebounder, and shot blocker Octavius Ellis was ejected early in the second half for a vicious forearm to the throat of Purdue center A.J. Hammons. 

Despite the loss of their best player, the Bearcats were able to hang in the game, playing from behind for most of the contest. The Boilermakers were sloppy in overtime, missing layups and more free throws to give the Bearcats a major advantage.

Cincinnati will now face No. 1 overall seed Kentucky in the next round, barring a miraculous upset at the hands of the Hampton Pirates.