MOUNT PLEASANT, Mich. (Interstat) — In a game defined by its frantic final seconds, the Central Michigan Chippewas stunned the Kent State Golden Flashes 87-85 on Saturday at McGuirk Arena, securing a crucial Mid-American Conference victory despite being heavy underdogs.

The Chippewas, who entered the game with a 4-12 record, overcame a significant second-half deficit and a late Kent State rally to hand the Golden Flashes, now 12-4, a surprising conference loss. The game was ultimately decided at the free-throw line in the closing moments.

With the score tied at 85 and 14 seconds remaining, Central Michigan’s Phat Phat Brooks was fouled by Jahari Williamson on a three-point attempt. Brooks calmly sank the first two free throws to put the Chippewas ahead by two. He intentionally missed the third, and after a scramble, Tamario Adley secured the offensive rebound for Central Michigan, effectively sealing the victory. A desperation three-pointer by Kent State’s Quinn Woidke as time expired was off the mark.

The finish capped a remarkable comeback for the home team. Central Michigan had built a commanding 49-43 halftime lead, fueled by efficient offense and forced turnovers. They led by as many as 12 points in the second half before Kent State mounted a fierce response.

The Golden Flashes, led by Jahari Williamson’s 23 points and Morgan Safford’s 20, chipped away at the deficit. A driving layup and subsequent free throw by Rob Whaley with just over three minutes to play brought Kent State within a single possession. The teams traded blows in a tense final few minutes, setting the stage for the dramatic finish.

Central Michigan’s victory was anchored by balanced scoring and superior ball security. Keenan Garner led the Chippewas with 16 points, while Brooks added 20 and Adley contributed 15. More critically, Central Michigan committed only seven turnovers, converting 19 points off Kent State’s 15 mistakes. The Chippewas also dominated inside, outscoring Kent State 44-34 in the paint.

Despite shooting just 7 for 25 from three-point range, Central Michigan’s overall offensive efficiency, measured at 122.7 points per 100 possessions, proved decisive. Kent State, which hit 13 three-pointers, was hampered by a season-low five assists against its 15 turnovers.

The loss snaps a three-game winning streak for Kent State in MAC play, while Central Michigan improves to 5-12 overall and earns a confidence-boosting conference win. The Golden Flashes will look to rebound on the road at Buffalo on Tuesday. Central Michigan travels to face Miami (Ohio), also on Tuesday.

The game, played before a crowd of 2,022, defied pregame projections that heavily favored Kent State. The combined score of 172 points also far exceeded the game’s over/under line.