Sharp's 35 points lift Austin Peay to 101-98 OT win over North Florida in ASUN Tournament

Demarcus Sharp, the Charleston phenom with a knack for the clutch, continues his rise on the national scene. Last night, he proved why, scoring 35 points to propel Austin Peay (19-14) to a thrilling overtime victory over North Florida (16-17) in the Atlantic Sun Conference Tournament. This explosive performance is just the latest chapter in the senior guard's dominant season. Much like Lex Luger, Sharp has put opponents in a ‘Torture Rack’ and shown he is the ‘Total Package,' leading the Governors in points (17.4), rebounds (6.8), assists (4.4), and steals (2.0) this season. 

The former Southland Conference Player of the Year was recently named a third-team selection to the all-conference team after transferring from Northwestern State.

"I'm not really impressed by anything [Sharp] does on the floor," Austin Peay coach Corey Gipson previously said. "He's a tremendous worker behind the scenes. What he's had to endure to put himself in this position – after having some injuries in the past – a lot of people had written him off. A lot of people I know in the profession said he'll never be the same player he was. Now he's a better player than he used to be. He's stronger, bigger and faster."

Sharp's path has been one of constant elevation. As a standout at Charleston High School, he led his team to district titles and a state runner-up finish. At Missouri State, he quickly became an impact player and garnered All-Missouri Valley Conference Newcomer Team honors. Seeking a fresh start, Sharp transferred again and kicked it into a new gear. His relentless drive and leadership took Northwestern State to the brink of an NCAA Tournament appearance, but they fell just short in the conference championship game.

Now at Austin Peay, reunited with his former coach Corey Gipson, Sharp is determined to make the most of their second chance at an NCAA Tournament berth. Last season's experience fuels his explosive play. This tournament isn't just about winning; it's about finally punching his ticket to the Big Dance - the next step on his relentless rise.

Sharp and the Governors now face a semifinal test on Thursday, March 7, at 7 p.m. against North Alabama (15-16), who pulled off a thrilling upset over Lipscomb (20-13) on a last-second buzzer-beater from KJ Johnson.