AUSTIN, Texas – Making his first appearance at NCAA Outdoor Championships and his final appearance as a Great Dane, University at Albany triple jumper Devon Willis placed 17th overall in his signature event.

Willis recorded a season-best of 51-11.25 on his first attempt of the evening.  After fouling his second attempt, Willis had one opportunity to earn three additional jumps.  His final attempt landed at 51-08.25, finishing 17th out of 24 competitors.

In order to have qualified for finals and earn three additional attempts, Willis would have needed to exceed 9th place Ade' Mason from Oklahoma, who jumped 53-09.00 on his second attempt, which would have marked a 15-inch personal-best for Willis.  Texas Christian University's Chengetayi Mapaya won the event with a mark of 56-02.50.  Top overall seed, Jordan Scott from Virginia, placed second in 55-09.75.

UAlbany has one final competitor at NCAA Outdoor Championships before the 2018-19 collegiate season concludes.  Venique Harris will compete in the women's discus on Saturday at 6:40 p.m. Eastern.