Kent State Tuscarawas punched its ticket to the Elite 8 on Tuesday night, pulling away for an 82-71 victory over Vermont State University Randolph in its opening playoff game.

The Golden Eagles controlled the glass and used a balanced scoring attack to secure the postseason win, finishing with a commanding 53-33 rebounding advantage and four players in double figures.

Garrett Sprutte led the way with a dominant 25-point, 12-rebound double-double, shooting 12-of-22 from the field while anchoring the interior on both ends. Dasjuan Williams added 23 points on an efficient 8-of-13 shooting night, knocking down four three-pointers and contributing six rebounds, three assists, two steals, and two blocks in an all-around performance.

Jaxon Robb recorded a double-double of his own with 11 points and 10 rebounds, battling inside and helping Kent State Tuscarawas generate 17 offensive rebounds. Blaine Raber chipped in 10 points on 3-of-4 shooting while dishing out three assists.

As a team, Kent State Tuscarawas shot 44.3 percent from the floor and converted 76.5 percent from the free-throw line. The Golden Eagles also limited Vermont State Randolph to 38.5 percent shooting and forced seven turnovers while controlling the tempo throughout much of the second half.

Despite a 26-point effort from Jaylon Calvin of Vermont State Randolph, Kent State Tuscarawas' depth and rebounding proved to be the difference-maker down the stretch.

With the win, Kent State Tuscarawas advances to the Elite 8 where it will face No. 1 seed Penn State York in the next round as the postseason journey continues.