SPRINGFIELD, Mass. --- Augusta State's men's basketball fans -- the Blue Crew -- stood on their feet and applauded their team a final time Thursday night.

The fourth-ranked Jaguars overcame a late 11-point deficit but could not finish off Cal Poly Pomona, falling 74-70 in the NCAA Division II Final Four at the MassMutual Center.

"Mixed emotions," said Pam Lightsey, who manages the Augusta State JagCard student ID program. "I'm proud they made it this far. We'll make plans for next year."

The Broncos (25-7) advanced to the Division II championship game Saturday. The Jaguars, who finished the best season in school history at 30-5, return home today.

"We're proud of the boys," Augusta State bookstore merchandise buyer Eva Martin said. "We're just sad it's the last game for our seniors."

Five years ago when Dip Metress became the fifth head coach in Augusta State history, he had little support for his program. He even gave away a car his first few years to draw fans to Christenberry Fieldhouse.

Since then, Mr. Metress has brought success and excitement to the school, with people throughout the community embracing the program. About 200 Jaguar fans traveled to the Bay State to watch their team.

Augusta State is the only Peach Belt Conference team to make a second consecutive appearance in the Elite Eight. Last year, the Jaguars advanced to the Division II national title game but fell to Winona State.

This season, Augusta State won the Peach Belt regular-season and tournament titles. The Jaguars also won the Southeast Regional and then defeated Christian Brothers in the Elite Eight.