Southeastern wins second straight title

Southeastern (IA) CC made it back-to-back national titles as they defeated #1 Redlands (OK) CC 58-43 in the NJCAA Tournament championship game in Hutchinson, Kansas.

The Blackhawks led 25-20 at halftime as both teams struggled with their shooting. Southeastern shot just ten of 26 (38.5%) from the field, but Redlands was even worse, masking only seven of 24 (29.2%). Kelvin Pena, who scored 33 points in the semifinal win, had ten points in the first half.

Southeastern was led by Pena with 20 points. He made seven of 15 from the field and was named NJCAA Tournament MVP. Benito Flores had ten points and Marvett McDonald added nine. UTEP signee Ivan Almonte had six points, six rebounds and three assists. Doug Thomas, who is expected to play at Iowa next season, had eight points and 13 rebounds.

Redlands was led by All-American Taj Gray, who finished with eleven points and nine rebounds. Butler signee Brandon Polk scored nine points in the loss.