by Emily Luxen
MURFREESBORO, Tenn. - A Middle Tennessee State University student is $10,000 richer after hitting a miracle half-court shot during a men's basketball game.
G Rollins got his big moment during MTSU's game against Tulane Thursday night.
The marketing student and former high school basketball player entered the Mountain Dew Sink the Shot Competition on a whim.
"I was like, I'm not going to get picked for that," said G Rollins. "I got a call from my dad saying ‘lace up. You've got to start practicing in the gym. You've got a shot at winning $10,000.'"
Before the game, Rollins attempted 10 practice shots in the auxiliary gym on MTSU's campus.
"I didn't come close to hitting any of them," said Rollins, "but, I figured it was bad luck if I hit one before the game."
At halftime, he was called to center court at the Murphy Center, and then launched the winning shot.
"I just got up there and all I saw was the rim and backboard. I just let it fly," said Rollins.
Video of the winning shot was captured on his sister's cell phone. His parents rushed to his side to celebrate.
"I knew my parents were behind me," said Rollins. "I turned around and saw my dad running at me. That's when we hugged."
Rollins said he has watched the video, but still can't believe he made the shot.
"Getting the opportunity and actually making the shot was a blessing," said Rollins.
The contest was sponsored by sponsored by 104.5 The Zone, Tiger Market, MTSU athletics and Mountain Dew. Rollins is allowed to use the money on whatever he wants, and he has decided to put it towards his college tuition.
MTSU won the game against Tulane 71-44.
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