Gonzaga’s Silas Melson enjoys happy ending to trip home

PORTLAND – Silas Melson’s homecoming wasn’t boring.

Melson, playing in front of 25 friends and relatives, was a central figure in Thursday’s blowout win over Ohio State, Friday’s gut-wrenching loss to Florida and Sunday’s roller-coaster victory against Texas.

The Portland product finished on a high note as the Zags recovered for a 76-71 overtime win after tripping at the finish line in regulation at the Moda Center.

Texas trimmed GU’s 16-point lead to four and appeared to have a defensive stop after rejecting Johnathan Williams’ shot in the lane. The ball found Melson out front and he beat the shot clock with a long 3-pointer with one minute remaining.

That only temporarily stalled Texas’ comeback. In overtime, Melson sealed the win with a steal and layup in the closing seconds.

“It was meaningful because the last game didn’t go as planned,” said Melson, who had nine points, five boards and three assists. “Just to come out here and seal the game felt good.”

Melson had 12 points, five assists and three rebounds against the Gators. He twice drove for huge layups while being fouled in the first overtime. He completed the three-point play on the first, giving GU a two-point lead with 2:55 left. He misfired on the free throw on the second with the scored tied with 1.8 seconds left.

Melson had five points and four assists against the Buckeyes.