Tri-C MBK Survives to Clinch NJCAA Regional Bid, 86-78

The Tri-C Men's Basketball team fought for their post-season lives on 25 February at Clark State. The Tops and Eagles went back in forth before the Tops closed the Eagles' 2022 - 2023 campaign with an 86 - 75 victory.

The Tops completed OCCAC play with a 12-4 record. This win solidifies the third seed in next week's regional tournament at Mott College in Flint, Michigan. The Tops had four players in double figures. Devin Haid led the way with 21 points and 12 rebounds (including four off the offensive glass) and five assists. Haid had plenty of help as the Tops held the Eagles to 25% shooting from deep. Tallice Landers turned in his best defensive effort to date. Landers was sensational and continue to add to his game during the season. Landers snagged a season-high 12 boards to go along with his three steals. He crashed the offensive glass to the tune of six boards while shooting 33% from deep and finished with 17 points.

Manny Hill continued his solid play. Hill displayed his ability as a floor general. His nine assists were a team-high and a season high. Hill connected on seven of his 11 shots while stuffing the stat sheet with 14 points, five rebounds, and nine assists. Jordan Persad finished with 10 points (four assists), and Tyishawn Smiley rounded out the double-figure scoring with 16 points and grabbed four rebounds.

The Tops began slow but pressured the Eagles into 22 turnovers and outrebounded the home team 38 - 29. The Tops led 46 - 39 at the break. The second half was similar to the first, as the visitors closed the contest on a seven-point run. The Triceratops completed their return season with a 24 - 6 record and third place in the OCCAC.

The win clinched a spot for the Tops in the NJCAA Great Lakes Region XII Championships to be held at Mott Community College, in Flint Michigan, from 9 -12 March 2023. The Tops will play the Kalamazoo Community College Cougars on 10 March 2023 at 9:30 am. Big congratulations to head Coach Aaron Nixon and his staff for a successful season, and good luck in the regional tournament!