Congratulations Dragons on a great season!

Our men’s basketball team reached the end of its championship journey this evening at the NJCAA national tournament, falling to fourth-ranked Parkland College 60-54 in the national quarterfinals. The Danville, Illinois trip was a perfect cap to an exciting season. On Monday, the Dragons won their first tournament game in 12 years following a 26-8 season. 

Basketball may capture the attention of a national audience during March Madness, but our commitment to student development through sports is a vibrant part of our teaching, learning, and training experience. Many of our athletes are also part of our scholarship communities and participate as volunteers and campus ambassadors.

What makes me proud of our men’s basketball team and all of our men’s and women’s athletics programs is how they represent our college in the community and beyond. This commitment starts with Mike Smelkinson, our outstanding athletic director, head men’s basketball coach, and Region 20 Coach of the Year, and the culture he builds with our coaches, assistant coaches, and program supporters.

I know that I speak for our Board of Trustees, our senior leadership team, and our entire campus community when I thank the Dragons for a fantastic season, for representing our college community on a national stage, and for their commitment to building a nationally ranked and respected program that will enhance our championship sports profile.

Go Dragons!