Asheville, N.C. — Former Tolsia star basketball player Coty Jude played his last game at Kimmel Arena for UNC-Ashville as the Bulldogs prevailed in a 98-96 victory over Presbyterian College in triple overtime Saturday afternoon.
Coty Jude with family and friends after the Senior day victory over Presbyterian College.
L to R Rachel Dale, Kim Messer, Abby Messer, Scottie Messer, Coty Jude, Nancy Sturgell, Mike Sturgell, Tammy Jude, Chase Coverdale
The Bulldogs improved to 16-13 with the win on Saturday and will be the #5 seed and face #12 Charleston at 2:00 in the Big South tournament that begins Wednesday at Bojangles Coliseum in Charlotte, North Carolina.
Jude finished with 13 points in the victory over the Blue Hose on Senior day including 3 three pointers and 4 of 5 from the free throw stripe.
Coty Jude at the free throw line.
UNC-Asheville Senior Coty Jude
PLAYER’S COMMENTS
“… I was emotional from the beginning, just trying to take everything in because of all the special memories I have from playing in Kimmel Arena. Not so much nerves, just really trying to be present and aware of the moment in the last game I will ever play on our home court. After the game I was emotional as well, because we fought so hard to get that win and to be able to get a W in that fashion was really just a testament to our will to win no matter the circumstance. I was feeling an array of emotions at the end, but I’m just so fortunate to share the court with this group of guys.”
“… It’s extremely exciting, especially with this group. We have so much talent and potential, some we still haven’t tapped into yet. Conference tournament time is always exciting, but even more so when the expectations are high. And for us, we know that there is nobody in this league that we can’t beat, so we’re going into this thing aggressive, confident, and with a chip on our shoulder.”
“… I knew this was going to be an exciting season from the moment we gathered as a team in June. A really special group of guys, who are extremely talented. I’m eager to see how far we can take this thing, because we are more than capable of doing some really special things. My 4 years in Asheville has been such a blessing. Allowed me to meet some of my best friends who I will cherish for life, as well as some really great connections. As far as basketball I’ve accomplished far more than I could have ever imagined and I’m so grateful to have had this opportunity.”
“… I haven’t thought too seriously about the future yet, staying focused on the team and the opportunity we have right now and looking to win a Big South Championship, which is the first big things that I’m worried about right now.”
