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The winning basketball shot

Bricklyn University “BRU Crew” Pulls Off Stunning Last Second Win in ISL Basketball Tourney

March 23, 2024

by Jennie Tiler Jeffries, Bricklyn Eagle Sports Reporter

In a heart-pounding showdown that had fans on the edge of their seats, Bricklyn University’s “BRU Crew” emerged victorious, 83 to 82, over their arch-rival Brickover University’s “Big Red Squad” in the 2024 Inland Sports League (ISL) championship basketball game. The game was an absolute roller coaster of emotions, with leads changing hands multiple times. But in the end, Bricklyn prevailed, claiming the ISL tournament title in dramatic fashion.

With early Spring snow squalls blowing outside, a sold out Dunk Them Donuts crowd awaited the start of the Inland Sports League’s (ISL) championship game between Vermont’s Bricklyn University and New Hampshire’s Brickover University. All photos in this article by Bricklyn Eagle reporter (and basketball fan) Paul B. Macro, with assistance from Dall E-3 AI.
Tip off between Bricklyn (in blue) and Brickover (in red).
Bricklyn forward Sven B. Svenson was free for an easy two point early in the first half.

Right from the tip-off, both teams showcased their incredible athleticism and skill on the court. Brickover’s “Big Red Squad” took an early lead with some sharp shooting from beyond the arc, but the Bricklyn “BRU Crew” fought back, fueled by a relentless defense and lightning-fast transition plays.

Guard Billy Tiler Williams dribbling past a Brickover player.

As the game progressed, the momentum swung back and forth. Bricklyn’s star point guard, Jeff Tiler Andrews, orchestrated some jaw-dropping alley-oops and no-look passes, igniting the crowd and rallying his teammates.

But it wasn’t just individual talent that sealed the deal for Bricklyn. Throughout the game, their team chemistry, and leadership by the BRU Crew’s trio of seniors shone through.

Players communicated seamlessly on defense, moved the ball with precision on offense, and lifted each other up during crucial moments.

Senior center Terry “The Train” Thomas about to stuff the ball late in the second half. Note that The Train always plays in his good luck faded blue Bricklyn U. uniform. It paid off once again last night.

In the final minutes of the game, with the score tied and tension reaching a fever pitch, Bricklyn’s unity and determination proved to be the difference-maker. They dug deep, feeding off each other’s energy and executing flawlessly under pressure.

With seconds left on the clock, a clutch three-pointer by Bricklyn’s sharpshooter Andrews sealed the deal, sending the crowd at Dunk Them Donuts Arena into a frenzy and clinching the championship for Bricklyn University.

Jeff Tiler Andrews releases his game winning three point shot.

After their thrilling 83-82 victory, we had the chance to speak with Bricklyn University Coach Brad Strongbrick and the hero of the night, Jeff Tiler Andrews, to discuss their incredible journey to the championship.

Bricklyn Eagle reporter Jennie Tiler Jeffries (on left) interviewing Bricklyn guard Jeff Tiler Andrews and Coach Brad Strongbrick after the game. Andrews received the “Swiftbrick” award for Outstanding Player of the Tournament. Strongbrick, retiring after ten years coaching the BRU crew, received the 2024 ISL Coach of the Year award. Note that Andrews quickly changed into the team’s “team victory” jersey with the number 112 patched on, reflecting the fact that this game marked the 112th win for the BRU crew under Coach Strongbrick.

Coach Strongbrick emphasized the importance of teamwork. “It’s not just about one player making the winning shot,” he said, “It’s about the collective effort of every member of this team. Our success has been a testament to the strong bond these players share both on and off the court.”

Jeff Tiler Andrews, still riding the wave of adrenaline from his game-winning three-pointer, echoed his coach’s sentiments. “We’ve been through so much together this season,” he said, “and that bond we’ve built carried us through the toughest moments tonight. When I let go of that shot, I knew my teammates had my back no matter what.”

It was clear from their words that the victory was as much a celebration of their unity as it was of their skill, highlighting the special chemistry that helped propel Bricklyn’s “BRU Crew” to victory. ✥

Editor’s Note: thanks to “rookie” Bricklyn Eagle reporter Jennie Tiler Jeffries for her coverage of the ISL championship game. She received some assistance from Chat GPT.

We welcome Letters to the Editor. Please email to: bricklynvt@gmail.com

To the Editor: What an amazing game! Thanks so much to The Bricklyn Eagle and News Channel 5 for live-streaming it. The teamwork that the BRU Crew showed should be a reminder for what we all need to do wherever we work. Those young athletes provide a terrific example. Of course, Coach Strongbrick’s leadership was stellar. What a record of accomplishment he’s had, and to top it off with the ISL Championship is like a dream come true. — Keith B. Holmes, South Bricklyn

To the Editor: Just penned this to thank the BRU Crew! — Oscar Newbrick, Bricklyn

“Yo, listen up, here’s the scoop, ‘Bout the Bricklyn U Crew, who love to play hoops. Outside the Dunk arena, snow falling so cold, But inside, the BRU Crew were bold.

Coach Strongbrick leading, with a plan so tight, Terry “The Train” dominating with all his might. But in the final tick, with tension in the air, Jeff Tiler Andrews, showed he’s beyond compare.

With a clutch three-pointer, the crowd went wild, Bricklyn’s victory, forever compiled. On the Bricklyn streets, their names now renowned, The BRU Crew champions, with their game astound!”