As most students were easing into winter break the men’s basketball team kept moving forward in their 25-26 schedule.
Maintaining the high intensity that has defined their season, the Ocelots closed out the first part of their season with authority and kicked off the second half of the season riding a four game winning streak, pushing their overall record to an impressive 14-1.
These results, along with all the work that has been built up during the season, have allowed the Ocelots to gain positions in the NJCAA national ranking.
In week 6, which came out December 15, the Ocelots appeared in position 22 in the NJCAA DII Men’s Basketball ranking. On January 6, the Ocelots advanced up the rankings to position 17 and are currently sitting in that position in week 8 as of Jan. 12.
12/17 vs. Kirtland Community College
78 – 33
On December 17, in their final home game of 2025, the Ocelots left no doubt against Kirtland CC. The 78-33 scoreline reflected the Ocelots’ total control from tip-off to the final buzzer. In the first half, the team built a 47-13 lead, allowing the coaching staff to manage the clock in the second half (31-20), and rotate the entire roster.
Offensively, J’vohn Walker led the charge with 20 points. When called upon, Kaden Huston showcased the depth of the bench, contributing 9 points, all coming from the 3-points range.
In addition to their offensive efficiency, the Ocelots’ presence in the paint was essential, neutralizing the Firebirds’ attack with a solid defense that secured 31 defensive rebounds.
A Test to Close the Year
12/20 vs. Southwestern Michigan
62 – 59
Maintaining their momentum, the Ocelots faced a tough Southwestern Michigan team, securing a 62-59 victory in a close game that tested the team’s resilience.
Trailing by 2 points at halftime, Schoolcraft regrouped during the break to regain control and seal the win.
Amir Perryman was the offensive standout with 16 points. Once again, the defense in the paint was crucial, with 24 defensive rebounds, while Kaden Huston repeated his strong performance from the previous game, scoring 9 points, all from three-pointers.
New Year, Same Goals
01/03 vs. Richard J. Daley College
66 – 50
After a 17-day hiatus, the Ocelots returned to the court against Richard J. Daley on the road, where they once again demonstrated consistency in a 66-50 win. Rael Cochran was the game’s top scorer with 17 points. Tyler Robison made his presence felt by recording a double-double, reminiscent of his debut performance, finishing with 10 points and 12 rebounds.
Conference Tip-off
01/10 vs. Macomb Community College
76 – 64
One of the most anticipated matchups of the season took place on Sat. Jan. 10, as the Ocelots hosted Macomb CC for the MCCAA Conference opener. Moving forward, every game carries significant weight as the team fights for post-season positioning.
In front of a energetic home crowd, the Ocelots took advantage of the home-court advantage, heading into the locker room with a 10-point lead (42-32). In the second half, the team managed the lead effectively, preventing Macomb from finding an offensive rhythm and taking the half 34-32 to finalize the 76-64 victory.
A key takeaway was the balanced scoring among the starters, proving that the entire unit can contribute to the scoreboard. Rael Cochran was again the top scorer with 17 points, reminding when he was recently named the MCCAA Eastern Conference Player of the Week. Furthermore, the team’s effort in the paint, both offensively and defensively, resulted in 38 total rebounds, a factor that has become a trademark of this winning streak.
Upcoming Matchups
Continuing conference play, the Ocelots will head on the road to face Mott Community College this Wednesday, January 14. On Saturday, January 17, they return home to host Wayne County Community College with a 3 p.m. tipoff.
