By Rev. Justin C. Jackson
"NAIA Men's Basketball: NAU Stallions Face Tough Battle Against Xavier University LA"
In a nail-biting but low-scoring showdown on their home court, the North American University (NAU) Men's Basketball team clashed with Xavier University LA (XULA) in a game that proved to be a test of resilience and skill.
Despite NAU's commendable defensive efforts, the game unfolded as a low-scoring affair, echoing the harsh Texas Winter Storm climate outside the arena. The final score tilted in favor of XULA at 44-57, prompting the Stallions to regroup and analyze their performance.
NAU's offensive struggles were evident, shooting at a rate of just 34.8%. Turnovers played a pivotal role, with the team committing 23, compared to XULA's 14. The lack of capitalization on opportunities resulted in only 9 points off turnovers for NAU, while XULA managed an impressive 25.
Amid the challenging game, Damione Thomas emerged as a beacon of offensive prowess for the Stallions. Recognized for his defensive skills, Thomas surprised spectators with two successful three-pointers and a breathtaking alley-oop slam dunk. His stat line for the game included 8 points, 6 rebounds, 3 blocks, and 2 assists.
Another standout performance came from Jamarric Hammond, affectionately known as "Pony." Hammond showcased his all-around skills with 9 points, 9 rebounds, 4 assists, 2 blocks, and a steal. However, the high point of the evening wasn't confined to the court. One heartwarming moment amidst the competitive intensity was Hammond's marriage proposal. Before the game, Hammond got down on one knee, presented the ring, and received a resounding "yes." Congratulations to Jamarric "Pony" Hammond on this joyous occasion!; Hammond's joy spilled over into the arena.
The challenging schedule added to the complexity of the game, with Monday's matchup marking the team's third game in a demanding five-day stretch. Despite the obstacles, the Stallions demonstrated resilience and heart on the court.
Looking ahead, the NAU Stallions are preparing for another thrilling battle on the hardwood. Their next challenge takes them to Texarkana, where they will face TAMUT on Thursday, January 18th. Basketball enthusiasts can catch all the action by following the game on the Texas A&M University Texarkana YouTube channel.
As the NAU Stallions navigate the twists and turns of the season, fans are encouraged to stay engaged and keep their "HOOVES UP!" in unwavering support of the team. Despite the hurdles, the rallying cry remains: "GOOOOOOOOOO STALLIONSSSSSSS!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!"
