Mighty Oaks Advance to Final Four with 91-78 Win Over Joliet

Herkimer, NY. - The Salem Community College men's basketball team opened play at the NJCAA Division III National Championship Tournament with an impressive 91-78 victory over Joliet Junior College, punching their ticket to the national semifinal round.

With the win, the Mighty Oaks advance to the NJCAA Division III Final Four, where they will face Northern Essex Community College on Friday, March 13 at 5:00 PM.

Salem used balanced scoring and strong work on the glass to control much of the game, placing six players in double figures or near double digits while maintaining a steady offensive rhythm throughout the contest.

Jarrell Little led the Mighty Oaks with 17 points, shooting 7-of-13 from the field while adding six rebounds. Saaid Lee followed with 15 points, knocking down two three-pointers and converting 3-of-4 from the free throw line.

Zyaire Gibson added 14 points, hitting three shots from beyond the arc, while Nasseem Wright delivered a dominant performance in the paint. Wright finished with 14 points and a game-high 11 rebounds, recording a double-double while also dishing out four assists.

Stefan Phillips contributed seven points and four rebounds as part of the starting lineup's strong overall effort.

The Mighty Oaks bench also played a key role in the victory. Nayeem Johnson provided a spark with 13 points and six assists, helping facilitate the Salem offense, while Idris Rines added nine points and four rebounds in an efficient 4-for-5 shooting performance. Quade'air Smith chipped in two points and a rebound off the bench.

Salem's combination of rebounding, efficient shooting, and balanced scoring allowed the Mighty Oaks to maintain separation down the stretch and secure the 13-point victory.

The win moves Salem one step closer to a national championship as the Mighty Oaks continue their postseason run.

Salem will now prepare for a Final Four matchup against Northern Essex Community College on Friday, March 13 at 5:00 PM, with a trip to the NJCAA Division III National Championship Game on the line.