The Shot (Ole Miss–Valparaiso)

"The Shot" (Ole Miss–Valparaiso) refers to a buzzer-beating, game-winning shot made by Valparaiso University guard Bryce Drew in the first round of the 1998 NCAA Men's Division I Basketball Tournament against the University of Mississippi (Ole Miss).

Background:

Valparaiso, a 13th seed in the Midwest Region, was facing 4th-seeded Ole Miss. The game was tightly contested throughout, with multiple lead changes. In the closing seconds, Ole Miss took a 69-67 lead.

The Play:

With just 2.5 seconds remaining, Valparaiso inbounded the ball from the opposite baseline. Jamie Sykes threw a long pass to Bill Jenkins, who caught the ball near the free throw line. Jenkins turned and quickly passed the ball to Bryce Drew, who was trailing the play. Drew, known for his shooting prowess, caught the pass and, in one motion, elevated and released a three-point shot as time expired.

The Result:

The shot swished through the net as the buzzer sounded, giving Valparaiso a dramatic 70-69 victory. Drew was mobbed by his teammates in a jubilant celebration.

Significance:

"The Shot" is considered one of the most memorable and iconic buzzer-beaters in NCAA Tournament history. It propelled Valparaiso to the Sweet Sixteen and cemented Bryce Drew's place in college basketball lore. The play, designed by Valparaiso coach Homer Drew (Bryce's father), is often replayed during March Madness and other basketball broadcasts, symbolizing the excitement and unpredictability of the tournament. It's also notable as a classic example of execution under extreme pressure and a testament to the underdog's ability to upset higher-seeded opponents.