ATLANTA -- In a shocking result, the Miles men's basketball team - which had won 14 straight games and was the No. 1 seed from the Western Division - fell 63-61 to Savannah State in the quarterfinals of the 2025 SIAC Men's Basketball Tournament presented by Cricket. The loss eliminated the Golden Bears (23-4) from the tournament but still leaves them alive for a chance to be selected for the NCAA Division II Tournament next week.

The game featured 14 ties and 22 lead changes with neither team leading by more than three points in the second half. With two minutes left, a jumper by Najashi Tolefree had given the Golden Bears a 60-59 lead. But after a turnover, Jerry Maxinaud scored for Savannah State to put it back in front with 59 seconds left.

Alvin Miles attempted to put Miles back in front on the next possession but he was unable to convert his layup. Qua King would make two free throws on the other end to give the Tigers a three-point advantage. Miles was fouled again with 11 seconds left. He made the first one but intentionally missed the second. Unfortunately, his shot did not touch the rim, which gave possession to SSU. The Golden Bears would get one more shot to tie, but Tolefree could not get a shot towards the basket as time expired to seal the upset for the Tigers.

Javonte Landy and King each had 17 points to lead Savannah State. Miles had 22 points, four assists and four steals, Tolefree added 11 points, and Corey Trotter added theee points and 15 rebounds to pace the Golden Bears.