Howard College Hawks Win NJCAA National Championship

Men's basketball team claims second title in program history with 82-67 victory over Southern Idaho College

Mar. 29, 2026 at 4:05am

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A cubist, geometric painting depicting a basketball game in motion, with sharp, overlapping planes of color representing the players, ball, and court in an abstract, fragmented style.Howard College's national championship victory showcases the program's enduring excellence and ability to develop top-tier junior college talent.Hutchinson Today

The Howard College Hawks men's basketball team won the NJCAA National Championship on March 28, defeating Southern Idaho College 82-67 to claim their second national title in program history. The Hawks overcame a one-point halftime deficit with a dominant second half performance, led by standout games from Terry Copeland (23 points, 16 rebounds) and Kuai Deng (20 points, 5 rebounds).

Why it matters

Howard College's men's basketball program has a storied history, having won its first national championship in 2010. This latest title marks a triumphant return to the top of the NJCAA ranks after a 16-year drought, solidifying the Hawks as one of the premier junior college basketball programs in the country.

The details

The Hawks trailed Southern Idaho College by a slim one-point margin at halftime, but erupted for 53 points in the second half to pull away and secure the 82-67 victory. Terry Copeland led the way with an efficient 23 points and 16 rebounds, while fellow freshman Kuai Deng added 20 points and 5 rebounds.

  • The NJCAA National Championship game was played on March 28, 2026.
  • Howard College last won the national title in 2010, 16 years prior to this latest championship.

The players

Terry Copeland

A freshman standout for the Howard College Hawks, Copeland recorded 23 points and 16 rebounds in the national championship game.

Kuai Deng

Also a freshman for the Hawks, Deng contributed 20 points and 5 rebounds to Howard's title-clinching victory.

Southern Idaho College

The Hawks' opponent in the NJCAA National Championship game, Southern Idaho College held a slim one-point lead at halftime before Howard's second-half surge.

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What they’re saying

“This team has worked so hard all season, and to see them achieve this goal is incredibly rewarding. I'm so proud of the effort and determination they've shown.”

— Bill Brock, Head Coach, Howard College

What’s next

Howard College will look to defend their national championship next season, as they aim to cement their status as one of the premier junior college basketball programs in the country.

The takeaway

Howard College's men's basketball team has reclaimed its spot atop the NJCAA ranks, winning their second national title in program history and first since 2010. This championship victory underscores the Hawks' sustained excellence and their ability to develop top-tier talent at the junior college level.