Kennesaw State Clinches Second NCAA Tournament Berth

Owls defeat Louisiana Tech 70-61 in Conference USA Championship game

Mar. 15, 2026 at 3:06am

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The Kennesaw State men's basketball team punched their ticket to the NCAA Tournament on Saturday, defeating Louisiana Tech 70-61 in the Conference USA Tournament Championship game in Huntsville, Alabama. This marks the Owls' second NCAA Tournament appearance, having previously won the ASUN Tournament title in 2023.

Why it matters

Kennesaw State's return to the NCAA Tournament comes after a tumultuous season that saw the team lose their leading scorer, Simeon Cottle, to a mid-season suspension following a federal indictment in a point-shaving investigation. The Owls' ability to overcome this adversity and clinch another tournament berth is a testament to the team's resilience and coaching.

The details

Jaden Harris led the way for Kennesaw State with 18 points off the bench in the championship game victory over Louisiana Tech. The Owls had previously won the ASUN Tournament title in 2023 to earn an NCAA Tournament berth.

  • Kennesaw State won the ASUN Tournament title in 2023.
  • The Owls defeated Louisiana Tech 70-61 in the Conference USA Tournament Championship on Saturday, March 15, 2026.

The players

Jaden Harris

Kennesaw State player who scored 18 points off the bench in the Conference USA Tournament Championship game.

Simeon Cottle

Kennesaw State's leading scorer who was suspended mid-season due to a federal indictment in a point-shaving investigation.

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What’s next

Kennesaw State will now await their seeding and opponent for the 2026 NCAA Tournament.

The takeaway

Kennesaw State's return to the NCAA Tournament, despite the loss of their leading scorer mid-season, showcases the team's resilience and ability to overcome adversity under the leadership of their coaching staff.