Imagine a nail-biting college basketball game where every second counts, and the outcome hangs in the balance until the final buzzer. That’s exactly what happened when DePaul faced Wichita State on December 13, 2025, in a thrilling 61-58 victory that left fans on the edge of their seats. But here’s where it gets controversial: Was it DePaul’s clutch performance or Wichita State’s missed opportunities that truly decided the game? Let’s dive in.
In a game that could’ve gone either way, CJ Gunn emerged as the unlikely hero for DePaul. Coming off the bench, Gunn scored a team-high 18 points, including two crucial free throws with just 13 seconds left to give the Blue Demons a three-point lead. And this is the part most people miss: Despite missing the front end of a one-and-one with five seconds remaining, Gunn’s earlier heroics proved enough. Wichita State’s Michael Gray Jr. was fouled on the ensuing possession but missed both free throws, a moment that could’ve shifted the game’s momentum. TJ Williams grabbed the offensive rebound, but the Shockers couldn’t get off a tying shot before time expired.
DePaul’s balanced scoring was key to their victory. Gunn shot an efficient 6-for-13 from the field, including 4-for-7 from beyond the arc. N.J. Benson added 12 points on 6-for-8 shooting, while RJ Smith chipped in 10 points, going 4-for-5 from the field and 2-for-3 from three-point range. Here’s a bold take: DePaul’s ability to spread the scoring load made them nearly impossible to defend in the final minutes.
For Wichita State, Kenyon Giles led the charge with 16 points and four steals, showcasing his all-around impact. Emmanuel Okorafor contributed 12 points and eight rebounds, while Dre Kindell added nine points. Despite their efforts, the Shockers couldn’t overcome late-game miscues, leaving fans wondering what could’ve been.
In the second half, Benson’s six points were crucial as DePaul held on despite being outscored by two points in the final 20 minutes. The Blue Demons improved to 8-3, while the Shockers dropped to 6-5. But here’s the question that’ll spark debate: Did DePaul win this game, or did Wichita State lose it? Share your thoughts in the comments below.
This recap was crafted using technology from Data Skrive and data from Sportradar, blending cutting-edge analytics with the drama of college basketball. What’s your take on this thrilling matchup? Let us know!
