DBU REPORT 28 PATRIOTATHLETICS MEN’S BASKETBALL REACHES NCAA FINAL FOUR A HISTORIC SEASON OF FIRSTS Following a series of commanding performances showcasing the team’s resilience, skill, and determination, DBU Men’s Basketball made history this season with the program’s first Lone Star Conference Championship, first NCAA Division II Regional Championship, and first appearances in the NCAA Division II Elite Eight and Final Four. A WINNING SEASON The history-making journey began earlier in the year when DBU clinched its first-ever Lone-Star Regular Season Championship and then won the Lone Star Conference Championship for the first time, defeating Lubbock Christian University 76-70. Both victories not only added prestigious titles to their accolades but also provided momentum heading into the NCAA Tournament. The Patriots were one of eight teams selected to host an NCAA Division II Regional and went on to win the South Central bracket—another pair of historic firsts. In the quarterfinals, the Patriots secured a 74-54 win over Regis University, with standout performances from players like Cameron Kahn, who led with 19 points, and Jackson McCabe, who dominated the boards with seven rebounds. In the semifinal matchup against Midwestern State University, the Patriots delivered an impressive 80-54 victory. The Patriots’ defense was relentless, forcing turnovers and limiting MSU’s offensive opportunities. A dominant surge in the second half secured DBU’s lead and guaranteed their spot in the regional finals where the Patriots were set to face the Colorado School of Mines on March 18 at the Burg Center. The winner would earn a coveted spot in the NCAA Division II Elite Eight March 25-29 in Evansville, Indiana. In a thrilling showdown, the Patriots secured a hard-fought victory over the No. 7-ranked Orediggers 100-79. The Patriots came out strong in the first half, dominating both offensively and defensively, and never looked back as they built a commanding lead. With contributions from several key players and an unwavering team effort, DBU capped off another historic win, securing a spot in the Elite Eight for the first time. Cameron Kahn, DBU’s all-time leading scorer, was named the South Central Regional Tournament MVP after leading DBU with an average of 17.7 points per game during the regional, while Trevor Frank’s standout performance earned him a spot on the All-Tournament Team. DBU came into the matchup prepared for a battle, and they delivered. With resilience and determination, the Patriots held their ground against a formidable opponent, making key plays down the stretch to secure the historic win. The energy on the court was matched only by the enthusiasm of the fans, who watched as DBU punched its ticket to the next round of the NCAA Tournament. BATTLE IN THE ELITE EIGHT As they stood on the brink of further glory in the quarterfinals matchup against Lake Superior State, DBU secured their first-ever trip to the Final Four with a 98-85 victory. Led by senior Ricky Lujan, who scored a game-high 27 points, DBU displayed an impressive all-around team effort. Isaac Bullard, Cameron Kahn, Xavion Brown, and Trevor Frank also made significant contributions, fueling the Patriots’ high-scoring offense and aggressive defense. After a competitive first half, DBU came out strong in the second, quickly regaining the lead and extending their advantage to as much as 15 points. With key steals, fast-break opportunities, and a dominant presence in the paint, the Patriots maintained control throughout the second half, closing out the game with a commanding win to advance to the NCAA Division II Final Four, marking yet another historic milestone for the program. Ricky Lujan
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