La Familia Survives Thriller Against War Ready, Advances to TBT Lexington Regional Championship
In a game that had fans on the edge of their seats from start to finish, La Familia escaped with a dramatic 76-74 victory over War Ready in The Basketball Tournament (TBT) Lexington Regional semifinal on Sunday night. The thrilling win sends La Familia to the regional championship game, where they will face perennial TBT powerhouse Eberlein Drive on Tuesday night with a trip to the quarterfinals on the line.
The star of the night was none other than former Kentucky standout Archie Goodwin, who delivered in the clutch with a game-winning bucket that sealed the nail-biting win. With the Elam Ending in play and both teams battling to hit the target score, it was Goodwin who took control when it mattered most. His decisive drive and finish through traffic not only capped off a standout performance but also sent the Rupp Arena crowd into a frenzy.
Goodwin, who has embraced the role of veteran leader for La Familia, finished with a team-high 19 points and added 5 rebounds and 4 assists. His poise and aggression down the stretch were key to holding off a determined War Ready squad that refused to back down.
“I just wanted to make a play for my team,” Goodwin said after the game. “We’ve been through a lot together and we’re fighting for something special. I’m proud of how we stayed together in the big moments.”
The game was a back-and-forth battle throughout, with neither team able to build a comfortable lead. War Ready, made up mostly of Auburn alumni, brought toughness and physicality, led by T.J. Dunans and Bryce Brown, who combined for 32 points. Their defensive pressure forced La Familia into several second-half turnovers, allowing War Ready to claw their way back after trailing by six at halftime.
But La Familia, made up of former Kentucky players and friends of the program, stayed composed under pressure. Brandon Knight added 14 points and 6 assists, showing flashes of his old SEC form, while Marcus Lee controlled the paint with 11 rebounds and 3 blocks.
The defensive effort in the closing minutes was crucial. La Familia clamped down and got key stops when it mattered most, including a block by Lee and a timely steal by Aaron Harrison. The momentum swung in their favor just in time for Goodwin to work his late-game magic.
With the win, La Familia improves to 2-0 in the TBT and now faces a major test against Eberlein Drive, one of the most successful franchises in tournament history. Eberlein features several high-level pros and enters the matchup with plenty of momentum.
Tipoff for the TBT Lexington Regional Championship is set for Tuesday night. A victory would send La Familia to the TBT quarterfinals, keeping their \$1 million title dream alive.
For now, the celebration belongs to Goodwin and company — but they know the road only gets tougher from here.