Mens Basketball
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MBB First Semester Top Ten

Hot Springs, Ark.

As the calendar year comes to a close, so does the 2021 Fall semester. This marks the halfway point for the Men's Basketball team, and we thought it would only be right to look back and count down the top 10 moments from the first half of the season. It has been an eventful first few months of the season and we cannot wait to see what the future holds for the team!

1. 2-0 Versus NCCAA Division II

The Tigers defeated the 9th ranked Campbellsville Harrodsburg 74-73 in the inaugural Champion Classic to start the year against NCCAA DII competition. Their next game was a regional matchup against Dallas Christian College at home, where the Tigers held a commanding lead for the majority of the game and ended up winning 95-79. This is a great start against the NCCAA, and the Tigers will have plenty of opportunities to continue their outstanding performance in the upcoming semester.

2. Second Half Win Versus Houston Baptist University

In a game the Tigers had no business being in on paper, the Champion Christian College Tigers defeated NCAA Division I Houston Baptist University by 12 in the second half. This is the largest victory in a half in program history versus a Division I school and was a very competitive game down the stretch.

3. Zo Capaci and Co. Great Performance in The Champion Challenge

The Men and Women's basketball programs implemented a new program this season to highlight and reward the young men's accomplishments off the court and in the classroom. On-court production has nothing to do with the challenge, and players are awarded points for good deeds, grades, attendance to any Champion College or Church events, and random acts of kindness. Zo Capaci, Bryson Sluga, Corey Irving, and Shaikeem Prince-Sadler have dominated the competition and had 2 team members with perfect attendance and a squad GPA of 3.4.

4. Braylon Hawkins Monster Game Against Oklahoma Christian

Junior Guard/Forward Braylon Hawkins showed up big time against Division II Oklahoma City University, providing some much-needed offense in a game the Tigers desperately needed it. Braylon would finish the game with 35 points on 12-19 shoot, and 4-6 for 3. He also finished the game with 7 rebounds to go along with it. 

5. Big Time Program Improvements

If you follow the Tigers Instagram page (you really should, @championmbb), you will have seen the new bus we got for the teams. A 39 passenger, with TVs, reclining chairs, a bathroom, and charging ports at every seat, the new bus is a beautiful and incredible improvement for the sports programs. A billboard wherever we travel or park, it is such a blessing. Also, coming the second semester the gym is seeing improvements as well with a brand new LED scores table. We can not wait to get it set up and show it off. Last but certainly not least, Ethan Sims has been brought on as our full-time videographer, social media, and all cool things the program does. He has been a huge help on all social media side of things and we are thankful for all his help!

6. Ariyon Williams Dominant Week

Junior Guard Ariyon Williams comes in next on the list after an incredible game against NAIA Williams Baptist University, and followed it up in the win versus Dallas Christian College. Against Williams, Ariyon finished with 12 points, 9 rebounds, 8 assists, and 2 blocks and steals. He did this while shooting 60% from the field and 40% for 3. Against Dallas just a few days later, AJ went off for 26 points, 7 assists, and 5 rebounds in the win, shooting the ball extremely well.

7. Red, White, and Blue Game 

The Men and Women's basketball programs were able to come together with the first responders of Hot Springs for a great evening of basketball and fellowship. The Police, Fire Department, and EMT team came together to play a couple of exhibition games, complete with free attendance and food for those in attendance. It was a great time for all who came, and something we look forward to making an annual event!

8. Freshman Show Flashes

Freshman Center Malik Laurent has shown flashes of how dominant he could be if it all comes together for him. Leading the country in blocks at 2.2 a game, Malik got his first double-double in college against NAIA Williams Baptist, with 14 points, 10 rebounds, and 3 blocks. He also had 5 blocks against NCAA D1 Houston Baptist University. The other Freshman that has impressed is Arlon Jenkins. In his second college game, Arlon finished with 17 points on 6-10 from the field and 4-4 for 3. Arlon Jenkins has continued to impress, even dealing with injuries, and is averaging the 4th most points on the team. 

9. 3.15 Team GPA

The Champion Christian College Tigers finished the first semester with a team GPA of 3.15. This is a major accomplishment for the team that should be celebrated. Coach Mo and Coach Hatfield could not be more proud of the guys' hard work!

10. Dallas Mavericks vs. LA Lakers

One of the best treats the team was able to take part in was attending the Dallas Mavericks vs. the LA Lakers on a day off of travel. It was the first NBA game for many of the players, and a great memory no one will forget, as the game went into overtime with some clutch shots from both teams. After the game, the team went back to their downtown beautiful hotel and had a chance to hang out before everyone went separate ways for the break.

 

Overall it was a great semester on the court, in the classroom, and off the court as well, and the Tigers are looking forward to hitting the Spring semester in stride, playing for a National Championship. With time off to rest and renew energy, the squad will be ready to go. The Tigers compete next on New Year’s Eve, December 31st, at the University of Central Arkansas at 11 AM.

Thank you so much for your continued support, and we look forward to seeing everyone in the second semester! Happy New Year, and God Bless!