Howard Community College Men’s Basketball Team Advances to NJCAA Division II Championship
The Dragons are going dancing in Danville!
The Springtime Spark is in full force in Dragon Country as Howard Community College’s Men’s Basketball Team received a bid to the National Junior College Athletic Association (NJCAA) Division II National Tournament in Danville, Illinois. The No. 15 seed Dragons will face the No. 18 seed Florida State College at Jacksonville in the first round of the tournament.
During a recent campus watch party of the tournament selection show, the team was joined by staff, faculty, alumni, and fellow athletes to celebrate the season and get hyped for the tournament ahead.
“I could not be more proud of this team,” said Mike Smelkinson, director of athletics and head men’s basketball coach. “They were counted out from the start of the season, because we couldn't play any home games. They’ve shown talent, grit, and determination and we are honored to represent Dragon Country in the national tournament.”
All games were played on the road this season, as the Kahlert Foundation Complex, which will house the college's mathematics and athletics programs, remains under construction. The new facility is slated to open in spring 2025.
The Dragons secured their place in the tournament after defeating the CCBC Catonsville Cardinals in the thrilling final of the NJCAA Region 20 championship. The match came down to the final second with only three points separating the teams. After Catonsville lost the ball, the Dragons secured a 74-71 victory.
The win marks the team’s second regional championship title in four years. The journey to Danville is all the more special as the team’s previous championship plans were cut short in 2020 due to the onset of the COVID-19 pandemic.
“This team embodies the spirit of Dragon Country and our community of scholars, faculty, employees and supporters,” said Dr. Daria J. Willis, president of Howard Community College. “We are tenacious, goal-driven, and settle for nothing short of excellence. Our coaches and athletes have made us so proud, and we look forward to showcasing our brand of basketball and sportsmanship on the national stage.”
The Dragons face off against the FSCJ Blue Wave in the first round on Monday, March 18 at 3 p.m. CT in the Mary Miller Center at Danville Area Community College.