The Midland College men’s basketball team is heading to the national stage after earning an at-large bid to the NJCAA Division I Men’s Basketball Tournament, which was announced Monday during a social media live video.
The selection places Midland College among 24 teams from across the country vying for the national title in Hutchinson. The opportunity comes after the Chaparrals entered the selection process ranked No. 9 in the final national poll, which strengthened their case for an at-large selection despite falling to Howard College 82-72 in the Region 5 Championship game on Saturday at the Odessa College Sports Center, according to a news release. Howard College earned the region’s automatic berth after winning the title with a 29-4 record. In that championship matchup, Midland and Howard were tied 28-28 at halftime before Howard pulled away in the second half, building a lead that reached as many as 14 points. Midland worked to stay within striking distance, but Howard ultimately secured the win.
The news release noted that sophomore guard Duane Thompson led Midland College in the title game with 20 points, four rebounds, and two assists. Solomon Ominu and Antoine Bo Hurns each added 12 points in the effort. Throughout the season, Midland built a strong résumé with wins over several nationally ranked opponents, including Trinity Valley Community College, South Plains College, New Mexico Junior College, and Odessa College. Trinity Valley entered its matchup against Midland ranked No. 1 in the nation, having won the national title the previous year.
With this at-large bid secured, Midland will now turn its focus to preparing for national competition.
Midland College has secured multiple NJCAA national titles in golf and basketball according to its official website. The college expanded its campus facilities through bond issues and donations over time as noted on its official website. Dr. Damon Kennedy leads Midland College as its president per its official website. The institution focuses on providing student-centered pathways to academic and professional success through programs that promote excellence and opportunity according to its official website. Additionally, Midland contributes to community development by empowering students to enhance their local areas according to its official website.