San Bernardino Valley College Freshman Liggins Shines on Defense and Clutch Shooting

Liggins has earned extended playing time with his defensive intensity and timely scoring for the Wolverines

Published on Feb. 4, 2026

In his first collegiate season, San Bernardino Valley College freshman Lincoln Liggins has earned the trust of coach Quincy Brewer with his defensive intensity and clutch shooting. Though not the high-volume scorer he was in high school, the 6-foot-1 combo guard has made an impact on both ends of the floor, leading the team in steals while shooting 44.3% from 3-point range.

Why it matters

Liggins' transition from being a high-volume scorer in high school to a well-rounded contributor at the college level highlights the development of young players and the importance of defense and efficiency in the junior college ranks. His success also speaks to the coaching staff's ability to identify and develop talent.

The details

Liggins, a recent graduate of Arlington High in Riverside, was a multi-sport athlete in high school but was convinced that basketball was his future. He chose to attend San Bernardino Valley College, where he has started 22 of 23 games this season. While he is only averaging 12 points and 4.2 rebounds per game, Liggins leads the team with 2.3 steals per contest and has shot an impressive 44.3% from 3-point range.

  • Liggins helped Arlington High reach the CIF Southern Section playoffs twice in three seasons, averaging 22 points and 8.2 rebounds over 71 games.
  • In his first collegiate season this year, Liggins has earned SBVC coach Quincy Brewer's trust and extended playing time.

The players

Lincoln Liggins

A 6-foot-1 freshman combo guard at San Bernardino Valley College who has earned extended playing time with his defensive intensity and clutch shooting.

Quincy Brewer

The head coach of the San Bernardino Valley College men's basketball team, who has trusted Liggins with a significant role as a freshman.

Got photos? Submit your photos here. ›

What they’re saying

“He was a high-level scorer in high school and I think his game, offensively, is starting to transfer over. For Lincoln, defense is everything. That's our calling card.”

— Quincy Brewer, Head Coach, San Bernardino Valley College (sbsun.com)

“I really wasn't expecting to play college ball immediately, so it's really a blessing. I've put in the work and I'm really proud and happy to be out there.”

— Lincoln Liggins (sbsun.com)

What’s next

The Wolverines are 11-0 in conference play with five games remaining in the regular season before heading into the Southern California regional playoffs. Liggins and his teammates will look to capture the program's first Inland Empire Athletic Conference title since the 2022-23 season.

The takeaway

Liggins' transition from high school star to valuable role player at the college level showcases his adaptability and commitment to improving his all-around game. His defensive intensity and timely scoring have been crucial to San Bernardino Valley College's success this season, and his development could be a model for other young players looking to make an impact at the next level.