Post Game Recap
Written By Rev. Justin C. Jackson
TYLER, Texas — If atmosphere could win games, Texas College would've walked away with this one. A packed house, a fired-up student section, and a full back-to-school event feel made Thursday night electric inside Grand Avenue. From the concessions to the cheers, Steer Nation showed up in full force — and for a moment, it looked like it might be enough.
But overtime belongs to the Stallions.
The North American University men's basketball team withstood the surge, silenced the crowd when it mattered most, and pulled away in the extra period to secure an 83–73 overtime road victory over Texas College.
North American controlled much of the first half, using pace and ball movement to build a 27–23 advantage at the break. The Stallions continued to apply pressure in the second half, but Texas College fed off the energy of the crowd, mounting a determined comeback and eventually tying the game to force overtime.
That's when the tone changed.
Overtime was all North American. The Stallions outscored Texas College 13–3 in the extra session, locking in defensively, attacking the glass, and converting at the free-throw line to close the door.
Joseph Cormier led the way with 17 points and 9 rebounds, anchoring the Stallions inside for 39 tough minutes. Jayden Jackson added 14 points, knocking down four three-pointers, while Kemani Wilson chipped in 10 points and 8 rebounds.
Off the bench, Syncere L. Shaw delivered a major spark, scoring 13 points and hitting timely shots that helped stabilize the Stallions during key stretches. Jamarric Hammond finished with 12 points, while Oakley Lewis provided strong energy and physicality, adding 6 points and 5 rebounds.
North American won the battle on the glass 39–36, forced 23 turnovers, and went a near-perfect 13-of-14 from the free-throw line, including critical makes in overtime that took the air out of the building.
Credit Texas College — the Steers fought with heart, rode the momentum of a loud student section, and showed resilience by forcing overtime. The atmosphere was as lively as it gets, complete with a campus-wide return from break and game-night concessions adding to the experience.
But when it was time to finish, the Stallions showed who they are.
This team is a new breed — and overtime is their time.
Up Next:
North American returns to action on Saturday at 1:30 PM in Hawkins, Texas, taking on Jarvis Christian University.
