Preston Edmead Hits Game-Winner to Send Hofstra to CAA Title Game

Hofstra University’s March magic continued Monday as freshman guard Preston Edmead delivered a dramatic finish against Towson in the CAA Tournament semifinals. The Pride needed overtime to settle a tight contest, and Edmead’s late heroics sent the team into the championship game.

The contest at CareFirst Arena was closely contested throughout, with neither team able to pull away during regulation. Both squads exchanged critical baskets, keeping fans on edge until the extra period.

With the clock winding down and the score tied, Edmead took matters into his own hands. Banked in a deep three-pointer with just 0.3 seconds remaining, the shot secured a 78-75 victory and propelled Hofstra into the finals.

The moment was not only a clutch performance but also a reflection of Edmead’s growing confidence. Guided by head coach and former NBA champion Speedy Claxton, he was entrusted to make the game-deciding play—an opportunity he seized with poise.

1. Clutch Performance in Overtime

The overtime period saw Hofstra and Towson trading key baskets in a tense back-and-forth. Each possession carried high stakes, with the winner earning a spot in the championship and a potential NCAA Tournament berth. Edmead, who had already scored a team-high 22 points in the game, rose to the occasion in the final seconds. After a quick glance toward Claxton for guidance, the freshman took control, going one-on-one before draining the decisive three-pointer. Claxton, clearly elated, leapt off the bench in celebration as Edmead’s shot found the bottom of the net. The play underscored the trust Claxton has placed in his young guard to make pivotal decisions under pressure. Supporting Edmead’s performance, teammate Cruz Davis contributed 18 points along with five rebounds and four assists. Together, their production helped Hofstra withstand Towson’s late rally and secure the win.

2. Edmead’s Emergence as a Leader

This season, Edmead has emerged as one of Hofstra’s most reliable contributors. The freshman averages 15.3 points, 3.5 rebounds, and 4.5 assists per game, providing the Pride with both scoring and playmaking. Claxton’s confidence in Edmead has allowed the guard to flourish in high-pressure situations. By entrusting him with key plays, the coach is cultivating the type of leadership and composure that can define March success. Edmead’s performance has not gone unnoticed, as Hofstra’s 23-10 record has drawn national attention. The team’s combination of talent, coaching, and poise positions them as legitimate contenders in the CAA tournament. For Edmead, the experience gained from late-game heroics will be invaluable moving forward. His ability to stay calm and execute in pressure-filled moments bodes well for the upcoming championship game and beyond.

3. Claxton’s Championship Pedigree Guides the Pride

Speedy Claxton’s experience as a former NBA champion provides a unique perspective for Hofstra. Claxton won a title with the San Antonio Spurs in 2003, often providing steady play off the bench and making key contributions during their playoff run. Now, as a head coach, Claxton channels that experience into mentoring his players. By giving Edmead and others opportunities to take responsibility in clutch moments, he’s fostering confidence and growth throughout the roster. Claxton’s guidance has helped Hofstra navigate the pressure of the CAA tournament. His understanding of big-stage dynamics allows the team to prepare mentally as well as physically for high-stakes contests. As Hofstra prepares to face No. 4 Monmouth in the championship, the combination of Edmead’s rising star power and Claxton’s leadership gives the Pride a formula for success. The winner will earn an automatic berth to the NCAA Tournament, adding even more significance to the matchup.