In a gripping matchup that went down to the wire, the Wake Forest Demon Deacons faced off against the Pittsburgh Panthers in a nail-biting overtime battle on January 27, 2026. The game, laden with intense moments and dramatic twists, ultimately saw the Panthers emerge victorious with a score of 80-76. Despite a valiant effort from the Demon Deacons, the Panthers' resilience and clutch shooting proved to be the deciding factors.
The game, played at the Petersen Events Center, was a rollercoaster of emotions for both teams. The Panthers, who were coming off a three-game losing streak, looked to regain their momentum and ended up taking down the Demon Deacons in a game filled with high stakes and critical moments. The Panthers' victory came after a thrilling overtime, where Omari Witherspoon's step-back jumper with just 15 seconds remaining sealed the win for Pittsburgh.
Wake Forest, who had high hopes for the game, made a strong start but struggled to maintain their lead as the Panthers fought back. The game was marked by intense back-and-forth exchanges, with neither team able to secure a decisive advantage until the final moments. The Panthers' ability to maintain composure under pressure and capitalize on key possessions ultimately tipped the scales in their favor.
The Panthers' victory was a testament to their resilience and determination. Despite shooting just 38% from the field, they managed to outrebound Wake Forest, securing a +5 advantage on the boards. This edge in rebounding proved crucial, allowing the Panthers to stay in the game and ultimately secure the win. The Panthers' performance was a stark contrast to their recent struggles, showcasing their ability to bounce back from adversity.
The game also highlighted the individual performances of key players. Barry Dunning Jr. and Roman Siulepa each scored 15 points for the Panthers, providing a solid foundation for their team's offensive efforts. In contrast, Wake Forest's effort fell short as the Panthers' defense managed to neutralize their scoring threats.
Looking ahead, the Panthers' victory over Wake Forest marks a significant turning point in their season, providing them with a much-needed boost in confidence and momentum. For the Demon Deacons, the loss serves as a reminder of the challenges they face as they continue to navigate the competitive landscape of college basketball. As both teams look to the future, this thrilling overtime battle will undoubtedly be remembered as a pivotal moment in their respective seasons.
