The most profound sound can be found in silence. The absence of noise can truly be the most powerful sound of all. In Gampel Pavilion, where 10,299 passionate fans had filled the arena, there was an expectation in the air. The loyal supporters of the two-time defending champion Connecticut Huskies were waiting for a moment that would match the intensity of their cheers. Historically, the Huskies had a knack for delivering in crucial moments, especially on their home court.

The game didn’t start in favor of the Huskies, despite them surging to a 14-point lead. Even the halftime ceremony where Ben Gordon’s jersey was retired didn’t immediately turn the tide. The St. John’s team managed to take an eight-point lead late in the game, putting pressure on the reigning champions. However, with time running out, the Huskies finally found their rhythm. In the final moments of the game, with just 12.3 seconds left on the clock and three seconds on the shot clock, the St. John’s team held a slim two-point lead. The atmosphere was tense, yet hopeful, as the Storrs crowd was accustomed to witnessing miraculous comebacks in both the men’s and women’s games over the years.

Surely the Huskies would figure it out. 

But a funny thing happened.