North American University Men's NAIA Basketball Recap - January 25th, 2024
Stafford, Texas - By Rev. Justin C. Jackson
In a heated match at the Stafford MSN Gym, also known as The Stable, the North American University (NAU) men's basketball team faced off against Paul Quinn College. The atmosphere was charged with Houston versus Dallas tension, with notable alumni and Phi Beta Sigma members from the Fort Bend Chapter in attendance, along with several WNBA and NBA legends. The preceding women's game added to the intensity, setting the stage for a thrilling men's matchup.
Game Dynamics: NAU found themselves trailing by 14 points in the first half but displayed resilience, fighting back with determination. The game saw two ties and four lead changes as The Stallions relentlessly pursued The Tigers. Shooting percentages were impressive, with NAU at 54.5% and Paul Quinn College at 57.1% from the field. The pace escalated, resulting in 15 points off turnovers and 36 points in the paint for each team.
Even with Paul Quinn's 16-point lead at one juncture, NAU clawed back and eventually took the lead. Freshman sensation #5 Kenwyion White, a candidate for NAU's Freshman of the Year, sent a bold message to the Paul Quinn bench," Yall boyz playing a great game but its going to be hard from now until the clock goes to zero", setting the stage for a thrilling comeback.
Key Statistics: NAU dominated the boards, outrebounding the Tigers by 5, securing 27 rebounds, and capitalizing on 14 second-chance points. The three-point and free-throw shooting made the difference in this closely contested game. Paul Quinn went 7-11 beyond the arc and 10-12 at the charity stripe, while The Stallions shot 5-18 from three-point land and 13-19 from the free-throw line.
For a commendable shooting percentage of 68.4%, NAU missed six crucial free throws, contributing to the narrow three-point loss. The game showcased mutual respect between both teams, making it an entertaining and memorable matchup.
Individual Performances: Jalon Clark led the charge for NAU with an impressive stat line of 26 points, 7 assists, 5 rebounds, and 2 blocks, converting 10 of 12 free throws. C. J. Miller, continuing to shine, contributed 12 points, 5 rebounds, 3 assists, and a steal. Jamarric Hammond added 10 points and 4 assists, while E.J. Wynn contributed 6 points, 5 assists, and 4 rebounds.
Post-Game Reflection: Despite the close loss, the morale remains high at NAU. The team's never-give-up attitude is commendable, and they are regarded as ambassadors for the university. Losing in such a close manner stings, but the Stallions' hard work and unity are sources of pride for the campus.
Looking Ahead: The final score stood at Paul Quinn 81 - NAU 78, yet it was a game worth rewatching on TSBN.com. Fans are encouraged to stay tuned for the upcoming Saturday game against the University of the Southwest from Hobbs, NM, also to be held at The Stable. So, as the Stallions say, "Get those Hooves Up and Goooo Stallionsssssss!!!!!!!"
