After six trying years and two ACL surgeries, Jaden Faulkner was likely playing his final game in Pucillo Gymnasium, and with the PSAC Quarterfinal against rival East Stroudsburg tied at 66 and a minute to play, there was no other player Millersville would rather take the shot. Faulkner broke the tie with a deep three, and Millersville dug in on defense, holding the high-scoring Warriors scoreless for the final 2:56 to advance to the PSAC Semifinals, 74-66.

Faulkner totaled 20 points and seven rebounds leading four Marauders in double figures. It was his free throw that tied the game at 66 with 2:03 remaining, and the 3-pointer with 1:05 on the clock that put the Marauders up for good marked another memorable moment in a storied Marauder career that includes over 1,400 points and more than 400 assists.

“That’s what makes Jaden so special,” said Millersville head coach Casey Stitzel.

From there, Millersville iced the postseason win by making four consecutive stops, grabbing defensive rebounds and sinking five of six free throws.

Millersville’s win puts it in the PSAC Tournament Semifinals for the second time in the last three seasons. The Marauders travel to play PSAC West champion Gannon, who held on to edge IUP Wednesday night. Millersville gave the Golden Knights their first loss–and still one of only two on the season–on Dec. 30.

INSIDE THE BOX SCORE
Millersville held a 35-34 edge on the boards, improving to 16-0 when out-rebounding its opponent. East Stroudsburg benefited from 22 second-chance points on 13 offensive rebounds.
McAliley led ESU with 22 points, giving him three 20-point games against the Marauders this season.
Millersville shot 56% from the field in the second half and 51.9% for the game. The Marauders also hit 17 of 22 free throws.