The Dallas College Richland Thunderducks men’s basketball team finished as second place runner-up at the National Junior College Athletic Association Division III tournament in Herkimer, N.Y. on March 14.
The T-Ducks lost momentum in the finals against Northern Essex Community College and came up short, 68-62. Richlands’ season wrapped at 23-10 overall for the 2025-2026 season. Thunderducks have been performing their best recently and aim to keep improving into the 2026-27 season.
Andrew Huntley, an All-Tournament Team pick, scored 16 points, 6 rebounds, 2 steals and a block. Jase Tarver added 14 points and 11 boards for Richland (23-10). Cedric Dent and Dre Rutledge each scored nine points; Dent also contributed five assists and two steals. Tyler Johnson scored seven points and made two steals.
In an exciting game, the Thunderducks showed resilience, bouncing back from two five-point deficits in the second half.
Johnson made a crucial basket with 7:35 remaining after grabbing an offensive rebound, putting Richland ahead 45-44. Dent, honored on the all-tournament team, then scored on a steal by Rutledge, matching the Thunderducks’ biggest lead 50 seconds later. Northern Essex’s Cristian Moscat responded with a timely 3-pointer on the next possession, tying the game. Jay’Von Depina from Northern Essex traded 3s with Dent, bringing the game to a tie at 50 with just over five minutes left.
The Knights went on an 8-0 run, highlighted by a 3-point play from Depina at the 3:51 mark. He then hit a 3 with 2:04 to go, giving the Knights a 64-54 lead. Huntley’s 3-pointer with 32 seconds remaining brought it within six, and Rutledge nailed two free throws 13 seconds later, narrowing it to five. Despite the Thunderducks’ best efforts, it was a little too late to turn the game around for a title win.
Basketball Coach Jon Havens praised the players for representing Richland basketball and Dallas well, noting last year’s fan favorite status and aiming to build on it despite this year’s shortfall. Dent praised this season’s success, crediting the team for their hard work, which he said has brought the team so far. “I encourage students to pursue their dreams and goals,” he said. Dent emphasized the importance of teamwork and perseverance, urging students to stay committed to their goals.
