Champion Men's Basketball return from Hawaii to take on Southwest Regional opponent Southwestern Adventist University. With some groups of players arriving off their flights back as late as 4 am, jetlag and lack of sleep were a major concern coming into a big game for the team. Those worries became reality quickly in the game, as the Tigers got off to a slow start offensively. Ultimately, the Tigers would figure it out in the second half, pulling away for a 87-66 win. This improves the Tigers to 5-2 on the year, and 3-1 vs NCCAA DII.

Southwestern Adventist started the game in a zone, and Champion really struggled early to get the shots they wanted. With 10 turnovers in the first half, the Tigers could never find much of a rhythm early. With a small 10-6 lead with 13 minutes left in the half, Damian Bohlman came into the game and gave an instant lift. With back to back 3's a quick 6-0 run bumped the lead to 10. The lead would stay around that mark the rest of the half, and a big 3 from AJ Williams sent the Tigers into the break up 8. 

The second half got off to a thunderous start, as Mo Capaci drew up a beautiful play for high flyer Xavier Hall to throw down a beautiful lob from AJ Williams. AJ would then score or assist Champions next 16 of the 19 points, and the Tigers were able to go on a 20-10 run to start the half. After another 3 by Damian Bohlman to get the lead over 20, Champion never looked back, pushing the lead up to 27 at one point before eventually winning 87-66.

It was another balanced night for the Tigers, with 4 players in double figures. AJ Williams led the way with 27 points in 30 minutes, shooting 10/14 from the floor. Braylon Hawkins added 16 and 6 on 8/12 shooting, Josh Walpole had 10 on 5/8, and Damian Bohlman had 12 points with 4 3's.

Next Up For The Tigers: Home against Southwest Region opponent Dallas Christian College January 10th.