PROVIDENCE, RI – The La Salle Academy Rams boys basketball team advanced to the Division I state championship game with a thrilling 71-68 overtime victory over Classical High School in a semifinal matchup that had fans on their feet throughout.

Senior guard Michael Connolly hit a three-pointer with four seconds remaining in overtime to give the Rams the victory, capping a remarkable comeback from 10 points down with five minutes to play in regulation. The shot sent the La Salle student section into pandemonium.

"I've been in a lot of big games, but that was as good as it gets," said La Salle head coach Bob Walsh. "Our kids showed tremendous heart and resilience. When we were down 10, a lot of teams would have folded. Our guys believed."

Connolly finished with 26 points, including the game-winning three-pointer and a clutch free throw in the final minute of regulation that kept the Rams' hopes alive. Senior center James Murphy contributed 18 points and 12 rebounds.

Classical, which had been the surprise of the tournament after upsetting second-seeded Hendricken in the quarterfinals, played a superb game but ultimately fell short. Senior guard Marcus Williams led the Purple with 24 points.

"I'm incredibly proud of our guys," said Classical coach Kevin Donahue. "We came so close. But La Salle is a great team, and they made the plays when they had to."

The championship game is scheduled for Saturday at 7 p.m. at the Dunkin' Donuts Center in Providence. La Salle will be seeking its first boys basketball state championship since 2019.