In a stunning display of talent, TJ Power scored 44 points in the Ivy League championship game on March 15, 2026, leading the University of Pennsylvania to an 88-84 victory over Yale in Ithaca, N.Y. This remarkable performance not only helped secure the championship title but also marked Penn’s return to the NCAA tournament for the 25th time in its history.
Power’s scoring prowess was evident throughout the game, as he made 14 of 26 shots overall, including 7 of 14 from beyond the arc. Additionally, he contributed significantly on the boards, grabbing 14 rebounds. This game was historic, as it represented the first instance of a player scoring at least 40 points in the Ivy League tournament’s history.
Key moments
In a thrilling finish, Power buried a 25-footer from the right wing to send the game into overtime, showcasing his clutch performance under pressure. His 44 points not only led the team but also matched the most points scored by a Penn player in 74 years, highlighting the significance of his achievement.
The victory for Penn improved their overall record to 18-11, a notable turnaround for a team that last reached the NCAA tournament in 2018. Cam Thrower also played a pivotal role in the championship game, scoring 19 points to support Power’s historic performance.
Coach Fran McCaffery celebrated the win, becoming only the fifth coach in college basketball history to lead five different schools to the NCAA tournament. This achievement underscores the significance of the victory for both the team and McCaffery’s coaching legacy.
Power’s performance has set a new benchmark in college basketball, as he became the first player in Division I history to achieve a double-double with at least 40 points and 14 rebounds in a conference tournament final. This milestone not only elevates his status as a player but also brings attention to the competitive nature of the Ivy League.
As the Quakers prepare for their upcoming NCAA tournament appearance, the excitement surrounding Power’s performance and the team’s success is palpable. The historical context of Penn’s basketball program, which reached the NCAA Tournament 10 times between 1993 and 1997, adds to the anticipation of their next challenge.
With the win, Penn’s basketball program has rekindled hopes of a successful tournament run, and fans are eager to see how Power and his teammates will perform on the national stage. The legacy of this championship victory will undoubtedly resonate within the program for years to come.