ESPN Men's Basketball

DOVER, Del. -- Delaware State celebrated its victory over Morgan State 0.4 seconds too early -- and that jubilation ended in a disappointing loss that cost the Hornets a shot at a regular-season conference title.

The Hornets appeared to have won Monday night's game when Tahj Tate dunked a tip-in off of Jay Threatt's missed shot with 0.4 seconds showing on the clock.

Most of Memorial Hall thought the game was over as fans and players ran on the court to celebrate. But the game officials conferenced, charged Delaware State with a technical foul for delay of game and set the clock back to 1.1 seconds remaining.

Aric Brooks made the two free throws for Morgan State and the Bears, awarded possession following the technical foul, ran out the clock for the win.

That spoiled what would have been a stirring comeback win for the Hornets (14-13, 11-4 MEAC), who trailed 41-24 at halftime and didn't take the lead until Threatt's three-point play with 1:05 left put them ahead 68-67.

A win would have put Delaware State one game behind conference leaders Savannah State with one regular-season game remaining. But the loss, combined with Savannah State's win over North Carolina A&T, ended any chance the Hornets had at a share of the MEAC's regular-season title.

The Bears (8-19, 5-10 MEAC) led 65-59 with 4:29 left before Delaware State went on a 9-2 run to take the lead. Ian Chiles made 1 of 2 free throws to put the Bears up 71-70 with 7 seconds to go.

Blake Bozeman scored 14 points to lead Morgan State, which shot 65.2 percent (30 of 46).

Threatt scored 19 points and Tate 18 for the Hornets.

Information from The Associated Press was used in this report.