NAU Men's Basketball Hits Whiteout Victory, 82-58 Over Dallas Christian
Post-Game Recap by Rev. Justin C. Jackson, SID
Stafford, TX — October 28, 2024
In front of a roaring crowd at the North American University's Stafford MSN Gym, the Stallions tipped off their season in style, delivering a commanding 82-58 win over Dallas Christian College (DCC) on a night of Stallion pride, with fans decked out in white for the game's "Whiteout" theme. The energy was electric, fueled by the NAU Football and Women's Basketball teams in the stands, rallying the entire student body to kick off the season with pure intensity.
Defense Wins Championships—And Games
The NAU Stallions came out on fire, playing smothering defense that left DCC players visibly rattled. At one point, you could hear it from the Dallas bench when a bewildered player turned to his coach, asking, "Why didn't anybody tell me they'd double-team like this?" Without missing a beat, the coach shot back, "That was just one guy on you! I told you—you can't play with Number 2," shaking his head as he pointed toward Eric Wynn. Known around here as "Vision," Wynn had DCC on lockdown with his relentless D, making any daylight for DCC players as rare as a Stallion without spirit.
The highlight of the defense? Big man Damione Thomas. With a dominating 13 points and 7 rebounds, Thomas patrolled the paint like it was his territory, adding key blocks and steals that dismantled any DCC attempts to score in the lane. Let's say if there were a "Defensive Nightmare" award, DT and Vision would have it in the bag.
Offense Rolling Like Thunder
The Stallions didn't just shine on defense; they brought their offensive "A" game too. Oakley Lewis led the charge off the bench, tallying a game-high 16 points while knocking down 8 of 10 free throws. And it wasn't just Lewis lighting up the scoreboard; Sean Fry chipped in 13 points with efficient shooting and perfect free-throw accuracy, setting the tone early. Jamarric Hammond, or "Capt. Pony," added a deadly 3-of-5 from downtown, finishing with 11 points that pushed the Stallions further ahead as they surged in the second half.
North American showed impressive composure in sharing the ball, racking up 25 assists as they worked together like a well-oiled machine. Pass after pass, play after play, it was all about finding the open man and setting up the perfect shot.
Rebounding and Hustle: The Unsung Heroes
With 36 rebounds—11 of them offensive—the Stallions owned the glass, thanks to Thomas, Joseph Cormier (7 rebounds), and Eric Wynn, who each came down with boards to keep DCC at bay. The hustle didn't stop there; defensive stops turned into offensive opportunities, keeping the Stallions in complete control.
Teamwork Makes the Dream Work
Every Stallion who hit the court contributed to this commanding win, setting the tone for a season defined by teamwork, defense, and explosive offense. The crowd could feel it, and the gym practically shook with "Hooves Up!" chants as the Stallions secured the win.
Final Score: North American - 82
Dallas Christian - 58
Key Stats:
- Field Goals: NAU shot a scorching 56% from the field.
- Free Throws: 21-of-25 (84%)—consistent at the line.
- Assists: A stunning 25 assists on 28 made field goals.
- Rebounds: Out-rebounded DCC 36 to 20, with a +11 differential on the boards.
This game was more than a season opener; it was a testament to what's coming. NAU fans, you don't want to miss this season. Mark your calendars, follow along at Stallions.na.edu, and join us at The Stable—our stallion pride is just getting started.
Hooves Up, and Goooooooooooo Stallionssssssssssssssssssss!!!
Gallery: NAU Men's Basketball Hits Whiteout Victo
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