Mighty Oaks Fall in NJCAA North District A Championship

Bethlehem, PA. - The Salem Community College men's basketball team came up just short in the NJCAA North District A Championship Game, falling to Montgomery County Community College, 58–55.

Despite the narrow defeat, the Mighty Oaks battled until the final seconds in a defensive contest that saw both teams struggle to find consistent offense. The loss ends Salem's run for the district title, but the team will now await a potential at-large bid to the NJCAA National Tournament.

Sophomore guard Jarrell Little led the Mighty Oaks offensively with 17 points, knocking down three shots from beyond the arc while adding four rebounds. Saaid Lee contributed nine points and three rebounds, converting nine of his ten free throw attempts and adding three assists.

Forward Zyaire Gibson added nine points and four rebounds, while center Stefan Phillips provided a strong presence in the paint with seven points and a team-high eight rebounds. Nasseem Wright chipped in four points and four rebounds while anchoring Salem's defensive effort.

Off the bench, Idris Rines scored five points and grabbed three rebounds, while Nayeem Johnson added three points and three rebounds. Quade'air Smith finished with one point and three rebounds, and Jahseir Sayles also saw action in the championship matchup.

The game remained tight throughout, with neither team able to create significant separation. Salem's defense kept the Mighty Oaks within striking distance, but Montgomery County was able to hold on down the stretch to secure the district championship.

Salem now turns its attention to the upcoming NJCAA National Tournament selection process. The NJCAA will announce the at-large selections on Wednesday, when the Mighty Oaks will learn whether their strong season has earned them a spot in the national field.

Despite the setback, Salem Community College remains hopeful that its body of work throughout the season will be enough to extend its campaign onto the national stage.