The men’s basketball team ended its first regular season in NJCAA Division 1 with a 16-16 record this year.
Standout players included sophomores Rico Pierrevilus and Anthony Jones, who were named to the All-MCCAC First Team, and teammate Josh Freelove, who was given Honorable Mention.
“These guys were our leaders all year, but the play of other key players like Bryson Smith, Rashaud Turner, Gavin Scott and EJ Carter are the reason we had a successful season,” Head Coach Deon Thomas said. “For the first season at DI, I think it went well.”
The Trailblazers earned a spot in the Region 24 tournament, defeating Kaskasia College, but were dismissed in the second round by the No. 1-seed and eventual Region 24 champion, Wabash Valley College.
“The game was a tough and physical one from the jump ball. I was very proud of the way my guys played and the intensity that they brought to the game,” Thomas said.
The team’s versatility and strong defense were just a few of its strengths in 2010-2011.
“One of our main goals was to hold teams to 40 percent shooting and in most games this season we met or were very close to meeting that goal. Also, our versatility made us a very dangerous team offensively and that helped power us to 16 victories,” Thomas said.
“I'm looking forward to next season because I have learned a lot this season. I believe that if I can sign the players I want, we will be very competitive and I think we can make a run at the regional and national titles next season,” he said.