Deywilk Tavarez scored seven points in the final 18 seconds, including the winning 3-pointer at the buzzer, and Loyola outlasted Cleveland State 91-88 in a thrilling season opener on Monday night at Gentile Arena.

The dramatic win was the Ramblers’ first game since the death of Sister Jean, their longtime chaplain who drew national attention for her devotion to the team during their Final Four run in 2018. Sister Jean died on Oct. 9 . She was 106.

The Ramblers are wearing a uniform patch in her honor this season.

Tavarez, a transfer from College of Charleston, hit a 3-pointer and a free throw with 18 seconds left, giving the Ramblers an 88-86 lead. Dayan Nessah tied it with a layup for Cleveland State with 10 seconds left.

Loyola’s Kayde Dotson missed a 3-pointer, but the Ramblers

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