The STLCC Men's Basketball team soared to victory in the Men's Region 16 D2 Basketball Tournament hosted at the Forest Park Campus this weekend. After a hard-fought win against Jefferson College in the semifinals, the Archers were primed for a showdown against nationally ranked North Central Missouri College in the championship game.

Coach Collins and the team had spent the week preparing for this pivotal matchup, knowing they were in for a fierce battle. From the opening tip-off, the Archers applied pressure to the Pirates' offense and fought tenaciously on the boards. They managed to edge ahead just before halftime, leading 31-30.

As the second half unfolded, the Archers built a slight lead and continued to apply pressure to their opponents. However, North Central Missouri College fought back, keeping the game tight. With six minutes remaining, the Archers held a five-point lead thanks to crucial three-pointers from DeMarco Buchanan and Jamaray Davenport. Yet, the Pirates managed to tie the game with just two minutes left on the clock.

In a nail-biting finish, both teams traded points until the final seconds. With just 20 seconds remaining, Jemeal Goines made a crucial basket and added an extra point from a Pirate foul. The Archers then held strong on defense, securing the win when a last-second shot from the Pirates missed its mark. Buchanan's final defensive rebound sealed the victory for the Archers.

With this triumph, the Archers will advance to the Region 2 Central Plains District in Arkansas on March 9th, carrying the momentum and determination that led them to the Region 16 title.