Gulf Coast State, Southern Idaho Set for NJCAA Semifinal Clash

HUTCHINSON, Kan. (Interstat) — A battle of contrasting resumes will determine one championship game berth at the NJCAA Division I Men’s Basketball Tournament on Friday when the Gulf Coast State Commodores face the Southern Idaho Golden Eagles in a national semifinal.

Southern Idaho (29-2), the tournament’s top overall seed, has been a model of consistency all season. The Eagles, whose only two losses came by a combined seven points, advanced with a commanding 85-64 quarterfinal win over Walters State on Wednesday. Sophomore guard Jalen Lyn powered that victory with 25 points, six rebounds and three assists, continuing his stellar play.

The Eagles’ path has featured tight contests, including a 73-66 win over New Mexico Junior College in the second round and several narrow victories in Scenic West Athletic Conference play. Their depth is a strength, with Ben Thornbrue (16 points, five rebounds Wednesday) and Ace Reiser (nine points, seven assists) providing key support.

They face a Gulf Coast State squad (24-7) that thrives on resilience. The Commodores, seeded eighth, have won three tournament games by a total of 10 points, including a 99-91 overtime thriller against Northwest Florida State in the quarterfinals. In that win, guard Trent Lincoln played all 44 minutes, scoring 28 points and dishing eight assists. Jabari Quarterman added 26 points.

Gulf Coast State’s season has been marked by dramatic swings, featuring four overtime games since late February, winning three. Their seven losses have all come by 10 points or fewer, demonstrating an ability to stay in every contest.

The matchup pits Southern Idaho’s formidable record and seeding against Gulf Coast State’s proven tournament toughness and clutch performance. The winner advances to Saturday’s national championship game.

Tipoff is set for Friday, March 27, at the Hutchinson Sports Arena.