November 3 – at Wilbur Wright College in Chicago, IL
The #1 ranked Bulldogs opened their defense of their national championship on the road as they visited Wilbur Wright College in Chicago, IL. They continued their undefeated streak from last season’s perfect 33-0 campaign as they defeated Wright 97-68.
South Suburban opened the game a little shaky as they did not score on their first three possessions of the game. At the 3:00 mark, sophomore point guard Jalen Houston connected on a 3- point basket to give SSC an early 3-2 lead. They would slowly pull ahead of Wright, and took their largest lead of the first half at 30-13 with 7:00 to go in the first half.
They went into halftime with a 47-21 lead.
They would extend their lead to 61-32 with 14:53 to go, and took their largest lead of the game at 92-62 with 2:37 left in the game.
The victory give South Suburban a 1-0 record early in the season.
The Bulldogs were led in scoring by sophomore guard Nakyel Shelton’s 29 points. He would also lead SSC in rebounding with 13. Returning player from the national championship team sophomore Damontae Taylor would fill up the stat sheet as he scored 18 points while grabbing 9 rebounds, dishing out 7 assists, snatching 2 steals, and blocking 3 shots. Two other returning players; sophomores Chris “CJ” Smith, and Christian Heffner would help SSC dominate the rebounding battle as they grabbed 9 and 8 rebounds, respectfully. Other double digit scores for the Bulldogs were sophomores Rashard Harris (14 points) and Houston chipped in 11 points of his own while snatching 4 steals.
SSC won the rebounding battle 55-27.
South Suburban shot 39/73 (53.4%) from the field, 6/16 (37.5%) from behind the “3” -point line, and 13-25 (52%) from the free throw line. Wright shot 19/76 (25%) from the field, but were a sizzling 10/19 (52.6%) from the “3”, and 21/29 (72.4%) from the free throw line.
South Suburban opens the home portion of its season this Saturday November 5, against Terra State Community College from Fremont, OH. Tip time is 3:00pm.
November 5 – vs. Terra State Community College (OH) in South Holland, IL
The #1 Bulldogs opened up their home portion of the 2022-23 season with a convincing 103-64 win over Terra State Community College from Fremont, OH.
The Bulldogs started out slow as Terra State held their last lead of the game at 11-9 with 13:50 to go in the first half. SSC took the lead for good at 19-18 with 10:00 to go.
The Bulldogs then went on a 21-5 run and took a 40-23 lead with 3:30 to go in the first half. Terra State would go on a 15-4 run of their own and cut the gap to 44-36 with :46 to go.
South Suburban went into halftime with a 46-36 lead.
The Bulldogs led 68-52 with 10:00 left to go in the game and proceeded to go on a 21-3 run and take a 89-55 lead with 5:14 to go. The final 39-point margin (103-67) was SSC’s biggest of the game.
Sophomore guard Nakyel Shelton had a career night for the Bulldogs. He scored a career high 42 points while grabbing a career high 18 rebounds. He also dished out 3 assists and snatched 3 steals. Sophomore forward Damontae Taylor scored 15 points for SSC, while grabbing 7 rebounds, and blocking 6 shots. Sophomore center Chris Smith scored 11 points of his own while grabbing 9 rebounds. The only other double digit scorer for SSC was sophomore guard Jalen Houston who scored 11 points while dishing out 5 assists.
South Suburban won the rebounding battle 59-35.
The Bulldogs shot 37/72 (51.4%) from the field, 7/20 (35%) from behind the 3-point line, and 22-33 (66.7%) from the free throw line. Terra State shot 22/71 (31%) from the field, 3/15 (20%) from the “3”, and 17-23 (74%) from the free throw line.
South Suburban improved to 2-0 on the year.
They continue their home stand with a 7:00pm tip Tuesday, November 8th vs. the JV squad of Trinity Christian University.
November 8 – vs. Trinity Christian University JV in South Holland, IL
The #1 Bulldogs won easily 144-53 in a contest that allowed 15 of the 16 players for SSC to play double digit minutes. The sophomore starters Jalen Houston, Nakyel Shelton, Damontate Taylor, Rashard Harris, and Chris “CJ” Smith played the entire first half.
They took an early 25-4 lead with 12:50 left to go in the first half, and cruised to a 75-20 halftime lead.
The bench took over after that.
SSC opened up the second half on a 21-0 run and took a 96-20 lead and never looked back.
It was a career night for several Bulldogs. The Bulldogs were led in scoring by sophomore Casey Nsamba’s career high 24 points and 8 rebounds. Sophomore Kaevon Anderson scored a career high 12 points while grabbing 5 rebounds. Freshman LeQuan Washington recorded his first career double/double as a college player (10 points and 10 rebounds).
In total, eight players scored in double figures. Nakyel Shelton (18 pts.), Damontae Taylor (16 points) Jalen Houston and Christian Heffner (15 points each) and Delaware Hale (12 pts).
The Bulldogs shot 66/97 (68%) from the field, 6/18 (33.3 %) from behind the “3”-point line, and 6/9 (66.7%) from the free throw line. Trinity Christian University (JV) shot 19/79 (24.1%) from the field, 7/28 (25%) from the “3”, and 8/11 (72.7%) from the free throw line.
South Suburban also won the rebounding battle, 79-26.
SSC, 3-0, finish their first home stand of the year this Saturday, November 12th with a 3:00pm tip vs. Jackson College from Michigan.
November 12 – vs. Jackson College (MI) in South Holland, IL
South Suburban’s defense was the story in this game as it helped the #1 Bulldogs to a 75-56 home victory over previously unbeaten Jackson (MI) College.
SSC held the visitors scoreless for the first 7 minutes of the game. They led 9-0 with 13:00 to go in the first half. They held a 17-9 lead with 8:00 to go when Jackson went on a 9-0 run to take a 18-17 lead with 5:00 left to go. Jackson grabbed it biggest lead at 22-18 with 4:30 to go.
However, South Suburban fought back and took a slim 33-32 lead into the halftime break.
SSC’s defense became the difference-maker in the second half. They held Jackson to just six made baskets the entire half. The Bulldogs took their biggest lead at 73-50 with 1:00 to go and never looked back.
South Suburban was led in scoring by sophomore point guard Jalen Houston’s 23 points. He also dished out 5 assist, snatched 5 steals and grabbed 7 rebounds. Sophomore guard Nakyel Shelton recorded his 3rd double/double of the season as he scored 20 points while grabbing 10 rebounds. The only other double digit scorer for SSC was sophomore forward Damontae Taylor who chipped in 11 points while grabbing 7 rebounds.
Sophomore forward Rashard Harris led all rebounders as he grabbed 13 to help SSC win the battle of the boards 49-30.
South Suburban shot 29/62 (46.8%) from the field, they were 0/8 from behind the “3” point line, and a dismal 17/29 (58.6%) from the free throw line.
It was the first time in the 17 seasons at South Suburban College that a Coach Pigatti team did not make a three-point basket the entire game.
Jackson shot 16/53 (30.2%) from the field, 3/16 (18/8%) from the “3”, and 21/31 (67.7%) from the free throw line.
The 4-0 Bulldogs head on the road Tuesday, November 15th for a 7:15pm tip at McHenry County College up in Crystal Lake, IL.
November 15 – at McHenry County College in Crystal Lake, IL
The South Suburban College men’s basketball team went on the road up to Crystal Lake, Illinois for a midweek contest at McHenry County County College. After a slow first half, their defense picked up and the #1 ranked Bulldogs prevailed 95-51.
The game started with SSC grabbing an early 7-2 lead. McHenry would take its only lead of the game at 12-11 with 9:30 to go in the first half. SSC would go on a 23-9 run and take a 34-21 lead with 1:20 to go. McHenry would close the half on a 6-0 run, but the Bulldogs led 34-27 at halftime.
South Suburban (5-0) would open the second half on a 12-0 run and take a 46-27 lead with 15:00 to go in the game. Over the next 10 minutes they would outscore their hosts 31-14 and take their biggest lead of the game at 77-41 with 5:41 left to go. They would never look back.
SSC was led in scoring by sophomore guard Nakyel Shelton’s 27 points. He would also record his 4th double/double of the season by grabbing 12 rebounds. He would also dish out 4 assists, and snatch 2 steals. Sophomore point guard Jalen Houston would score 14 points for SSC, while dishing out 4 assists and snatching 3 steals. Two other sophomores scored in double figures for the Bulldogs. Damontae Taylor finished with 12 points, 7 rebounds and Jeremiah Staten had 11 points. The Bulldogs had two other sophomore players grab double figure rebounds. Rashard Harris, 12 rebounds, and Chris Smith (10 rebounds) helped SSC dominate the rebounding battle 64-42.
Pigatti’s Bulldogs shot 38/91 (41.8%) from the field, 7/26 (26.9%) from behind the “3”-point line, and 12/21 (57.1%) from the free throw line. McHenry Shot 19/58 (32.7%) from the field, 5/24 (20.8%) from the “3”, and 8/11 (72.7%) from the free throw line.
South Suburban returns home this Saturday, November 19th as they host the College of Lake County. Tip time is 3:00pm.
November 19 – vs. College of Lake County in South Holland, IL
The #1 Bulldogs continued their winning ways with a convincing 86-37 home victory over the College of Lake County.
SSC took an early 9-2 lead with 15:30 and took their largest lead of the first half at 36-12 with 1:55. Pigatti’s crew went into halftime with a 38-16 lead.
The Bulldogs started the second half on a 24-4 run and led 62-20 with 11:00 left to go in the game.
The four points for Lake County were all free throws as the Lancers did not score their first basket of the second half until the 8:50 mark. The only made three baskets the entire second half. SSC took its biggest lead of the game at 86-36 with :50 left in the game.
Saturday’s win makes the Bulldog’s 6-0 on the season. Going back to last year’s historic 33-0 season, the Bulldogs’ 39 victories is the longest winning streak in NJCAA Division II history and is the longest winning streak in college basketball, regardless of division.
South Suburban was led in scoring by sophomore point guard Jalen Houston’s 19 points. He also recorded a double/double as he grabbed 10 rebounds. To fill his stat sheet out he also dished out 5 assists, and snatched 3 steals. Sophomore forward Damontae Taylor scored 18 points while grabbing 8 rebounds of his own for the Bulldogs. SSC’s sophomore guard Nakyel Shelton continues his double/double tear as he recorded his 5th one in 6 games this season by scoring 15 points while grabbing 10 rebounds. South Suburban shot 35/73 (46.9%) from the field, 6/23 (26.1%) from behind the three-point line, and 10/17 (58.8%) from the free throw line. Lake County shot 10/55 (18>2%) from the field, 0/11 from the “3”, and 17/20 (85%) from the free throw line.
South Suburban continues its home stand vs. Oakton Community College this Tuesday, November 22nd. Tip time is 7:00pm.
November 22 – vs. Oakton Community College in South Holland, IL
The top ranked Bulldogs extended the longest winning streak in all of national college basketball to 40 games defeating Oakton Community College, 82-46.
The game started with SSC taking an early 24-7 lead with 10:00 to go in the first half. Oakton would then go on a 14-4 run and cut the Bulldog lead to 28-21 with 6:00 to go.
South Suburban would take a 43-27 lead into the half time break.
The Bulldogs would open the second half on a 16-2 run and take a 59-29 lead with 15:19 to go in the game. The Owls would not make it first field goal of the second half until the 11:00 mark of the second half. They would only make 5 baskets the entire second half. South Suburban would take its biggest lead of the game at 77-37 with 4:00 to go and never looked back.
South Suburban was led in scoring by sophomore guard Nakyel Shelton’s 18 points and 9 rebounds. Sophomore guard Jalen Houston would score 16 points while snatching 7 steals, and dishing out 5 assists. Sophomore forward Damontae Taylor would score 14 points while snatching 9 steals, and dishing out 5 assists. for the Bulldogs. The only other double digit scorer for SSC was sophomore center Chris “CJ” Smith who chipped in 10 points of his own.
South Suburban shot 28/65 (43.1%) from the field, 6/18 (33.3%) from behind the “3”-point line, and 20/31 (64.5%) from the free throw line. Oakton shot 15/43 (34.9%) from the field, 4/11 (36.4%) from the “3”, and 12/16 (75%) from the free throw line.
South Suburban won the rebounding battle 42-40.
After improved to 7-0 on the season, the Bulldogs will take a week off for the Thanksgiving break and return to their home floor next Tuesday November 29th vs. south suburb rival Prairie State College. Tip time is 7:00pm.
November 29 – vs. Prairie State College in South Holland, IL
The Bulldogs extended their winning streak with a 82-64 victory over its south suburban rival Prairie State College. The 41 game streak is the longest in all of college basketball regardless of division, and the longest in NJCAA Division II history.
The Pioneers had an early 15-9 lead with 13:00 to go in the first half. SSC would tie the game at 15 two minutes later. The game was tied at 24 with 7:00 to go when Pigatti’s Bulldogs went on a 12-2 run and take a 36-26 with 2:00 left in the first half. SSC would then take a 38-33 lead into the halftime break.
Prairie State would claw back to tie the game at 42 as the 2nd half began. The #1 ranked Bulldogs (8-0) would then go on a 20-6 run and take a 62-48 lead with 8:30 to go in and finished the game with an 18-point margin. It was SSC’s largest lead of the game.
South Suburban had two players record double/doubles. Sophomores Damonate Taylor grabbed 10 rebounds and finished with 29 points (21 in the first half). Nakyel Shelton grabbed a game high 14 rebounds and scored all his 18 points in the second half. Sophomore forward Delaware Hale was perfect from the field 4/4 as he chipped 9 points for the Bulldogs as well.
South Suburban shot 30/56 (53.6%) from the field, 4/11 (36.4%) from behind the “3”-point line, and 18/21 (85.7%) from the free throw line. Prairie State shot 22/61 (36.1%) from the field, 3/16 (18.8%) from the “3”, and 17/25 (68%) from the free throw line.
The Bulldogs now head out on the road to west central Illinois this Sunday, Dec. 4th for a Top 20 match up at Spoon River College in Canton. The game time is 2:00 pm.
December 4 – at Spoon River College in Canton, IL
College Basketball’s current longest winning streak was snapped at 41 as the #1 ranked Bulldogs were defeated at Spoon River College 83-69.
The Snappers jumped out to an early 11-6 lead, but South Suburban took its biggest lead of the game at 30-26 with 5:20 to go in the first half. Spoon River would go on a 19-2 run to close out the half and take a 45-32 lead into the halftime break.
Spoon River expanded that lead to 59-40 with 12:30 to go in the game. SSC would then go on a 18-8 run and close the gap to 67-58 with 4:55 to go.
The Bulldogs could get no closer and fall to 8-1 on the season.
South Suburban was led in scoring by sophomore forward Damontae Taylors 13 points, who also grabbed 6 rebounds. Sophomores Naykyel Shelton and Christian Heffner scored 12 points a piece for SSC as well. Shelton recorded his 7th double/double of the season as he grabbed 14 rebounds.
The Bulldogs won the rebounding battle 42-36, however the 23 turnovers hurt them in the game.
South Suburban shot 28/65 (43.1%) from the field, 5/14 (35.7%) from behind the “3”-point line, and were only 8/19 (42/1%) from the free throw line. Spoon River shot 26/49 (53.1%) from the field, 6/15 (40%) from the “3”, and won the game at the free throw line as they were 28/41 (68.3%). The foul discrepancy was South Suburban 26 Spoon River 10.
The Bulldogs return home this Tuesday December 6th for an out-of-region clash vs. Southwestern Michigan College. Tip time is 7:30 pm.
December 6 – vs. Southwestern Michigan College in South Holland, IL
The Bulldogs dropped to #5 in the latest NJCAA Division 2 poll after their first defeat since April 2021. However, their winning streak at the on campus Physical Fitness and Athletic Center remains intact after a 95-61 victory over Southwestern Michigan College.
They have not lost at home since February 8, 2020.
SSC jumped out to an early 13-5 lead. They extended it to 39-13 with 4:50 to go in the first half. They doubled up Southwestern’s score at halftime, 52-26.
Southwestern scored the first five points of the second half. The visitor’s momentum was stopped after a complete substitution by Coach Pigatti of the entire starting line-up. The Bulldogs extended the lead to 40 at 88-48 with 5:30 to go. They never looked back and improved to 9-1 on the season.
The Bulldogs were led in scoring by sophomore guard Nakyel Shelton 7th double/double of the season (20 pts./10 rebounds). Sophomores Damonate Taylor and Jalen Houston scored 17 points apiece. Sophomore forward Rashard Harris rounded out the double digit scorers as he chipped in 10 points of his own.
SSC dominated the rebounding battle 39-13. They only gave up three offensive rebounds the entire game.
South Suburban shot 35/64 (54.7%) from the field, 6/21 (28.6%) from behind the 3-point line, and 19/22 (86.4%) from the free throw line. Southwestern Michigan shot 21/46 (45.7%) from the field, 2/10 (20%) from the “3”, and 17/24 (70.8%) from the free throw line.
The Bulldogs continue their home stand this Saturday, December 10th with a 3:00 p.m. tip against Morton College.
December 10 – vs. Morton College in South Holland, IL
The #5 Bulldogs continued their winning ways at home with a hard fought 78-62 victory over Morton College.
SSC started off fast in this game and took a 10-0 lead with 16:00 left to go in the first half. They would extend it to 15-2 with 14:00 to go before Morton cut into the double digit lead, making it 32-23 at halftime.
Morton would get as close as 39-34 with 15:30 to go in the game. They trailed by nine points (61-52) with 6:40 left to go when SSC went on a 11-2 run and took their biggest lead of the game at 72-54 with 5:00 left.
The 16-point victory would extend SSC’s (10-1) on-campus winning streak to 31 games. last loss at the PEAC was on February 8th in 2020.
SSC was led in scoring by sophomore guard Nakyel Shelton 28 points, who also grabbed 7 rebounds. Two other Bulldogs scored in double figures were sophomores Jalen Houston (12 pts), and Damontae Taylor (11 pts).
SSC won the rebounding battle 33-32.
South Suburban shot 32/56 (57.1%) from the field, 8/18 (44.4%) from behind the 3-point line, and a chilly 6-13 (46.2%) from the free throw line. Morton shot 19/50 (38%) from the field, 9/21 (42.9%) from the “3”, and 15/23 (65.2%) from the free throw line.
The Bulldogs will take a break this week from the court to concentrate on their final exams. They return to the home floor for their date verses Carl Sandburg College this Saturday December 17th. Tip time is 3:00pm.
December 17 – vs. Carl Sandburg College in South Holland, IL
With final exams out of the way, the #3 Bulldogs hosted Carl Sandburg College in a Region IV matchup.
SSC took an early 22-7 lead with 12:57 to go in the first half. They extended the lead to 52-22 with 2:30 to go and led 56-31 at halftime.
The scoring margin remained roughly the same as SSC led 87-61 with 5:24 to go in the game. Carl Sandburg did not score another point and SSC went on a 102-61 victory to improve to 11-1 on the season.
The Bulldogs were led in scoring by sophomore forward Damontae Taylor’s 30 points. He also snatched 5 steals and blocked 4 shots. SSC had four other players score in double digits. Sophomores Nakyel Shelton (18 points, 15 rebounds), Jalen Houston (16 points, 8 assists), Delaware Hale (14 points 8 rebounds) and Chris Smith (10 points 8 rebounds). South Suburban shot 43/77 (55.8%) from the field, 4/17 (23.5%) from behind the 3-point line, and 12/22 (54.5%) from the free throw line. Carl Sandburg shot 19/57 (33.3%) from the field, 6/18 (33.3%) from the “3”, and 17/25 (68%) from the free throw line.
The Bulldogs play one more home game before they depart for a short Christmas break. Nationally ranked Waubonsee Community College this Tuesday, December 20th. Tip time is 7:00pm.
December 20 – vs. Waubonsee Community College in South Holland, IL
The #3 Bulldogs hosted #20 Waubonsee Community College as the two nationally ranked teams haven’t played each other since last year’s Regional Championship Game. That contest last spring was one for the ages as SSC pulled out an exciting 73-72 victory to advance to the National Tournament.
Waubonsee practically have their entire team back from last year. SSC only have two players that played a lot last season.
Tuesday night, SSC would lead by double digits for the second straight year and would not let the Chiefs get any closer than seven points in the second half as the Bulldogs prevailed 89-71.
The game started out tight as the seated NJCAA Division II champions held a slim 14-12 lead with 11:00 left to go in the first half. The Bulldogs would lead 21-12 with 10:00 left to go as SSC forward Damontae Taylor would score 12 points during the first ten minutes of the game to match the visitors.
The Bulldogs would expend the lead to 30-14 with 8:00 to go, but Waubonsee went on a 11-3 run of their own to cut SSC’s lead to 33-25 with 5:00 left to go. South Suburban would close the half on a 20-13 run and lead 53-38 at halftime.
South Suburban expanded their lead to 60-42 with 17:00 left to go in the game. Waubonsee had a 14-3 run to cut the Bulldog lead to 63-56 with 13:40 to go in the game.
The Bulldogs would not budge after that. They responded with a 20-8 run of their own and grabbed their biggest lead of the game at 83-64 with just under 5 minutes to go in the game. They would never look back as they improved their record to 12-1 on the season.
The Bulldogs were led in scoring by sophomore guard Nakyel Shelton’s 36 points. He would record his 10th double/double of the season as he would grab 14 rebounds. Taylor would score 26 points of his own while grabbing 8 rebounds dishing out 5 assists, blocking 2 shots, and snatching 4 steals. Sophomore point guard Jalen Houston would snatch 5 steals of his own, and dish out 7 assists.
South Suburban shot 30/61 (49.2%) from the field, 6/16 (37.5%) from behind the “3”-point line, and 23/36 (63.9%) from the free throw line. Waubonsee shot 22/65 (33.8%) from the field, 3/18 (16.7%) from the “3”, and 24/35 (68.6%) from the free throw line.
South Suburban won the rebounding battle 46-33.
The Bulldogs head home for the Christmas but return immediately after the holiday. Pigatti’s squad will travel to the state of Michigan for two road games as they will face two of the Top 15 teams in the country in Henry Ford Community College on December 29th (3:00 p.m. EST) and a 1:00 p.m. EST at Macomb Community College on the 30th.
December 29 – at Henry Ford College in Dearborn, MI
The #3 Bulldogs headed out on the road to the state of Michigan after the Christmas break to play two of the Top 11 teams in the country.
First up was #11 Henry Ford College in Dearborn, MI. Pigatti’s men were very sluggish to start the game and were defeated 94-75.
SSC kept the game close early. Henry Ford led 24-21 with 9:00 left in the first half and proceed to go on a 11-0 run and took a 35-21 lead with 6:00 to go. The Hawks would lead by a decisive 50-31 margin at halftime.
South Suburban got to within 10 points on several occasions, the last being 61-51 with 7:00 left to go. They would never get any closer as they fell to 12-2 on the season.
South Suburban was led in scoring by sophomore Nakyel Shelton’s 25 points. Sophomores Damontae Taylor (11 pts.), Jalen Houston (10 pts.) and Christian Heffner (10 pts.) were the only other double digit scorers for the Bulldogs.
SSC’s sophomore center Chris Smith led all rebounders with 13 rebounds as the Bulldogs won the rebounding battle 35-34.
South Suburban shot 30/73 (41.1%) from the field, 5/19 (26.3%) from behind the “3”-point line, and 10/14 (71.4%) from the free throw line. Henry Ford shot 25/65 (53.8%) from the field, 10/22 (45.5%) from the “3”, and 14/15 (93.3%) from the free throw line. Henry Ford had five players score in double digits led by D’Juan Seal (1st game of the year) 28 points.
The Bulldogs continue their road trip tomorrow in Warren, MI to face #9 Macomb Community College. Tip time is 1:00pm (EST).
December 30 – at Macomb Community College in Warren, MI
The Bulldogs played short handed against #9 Macomb Community College as they were without their leading scorer Nakyel Shelton and third leading scorer Jalen Houston. The Dogs battled hard all game, but in the end fell short 71-66.
Macomb jumped out to an early 12-5 lead with 14:30 to go in the first half. SSC would tie the game at 22 with 7:30 to go and trail 37-354 at halftime.
Macomb struck first in the second half and jumped out to a 43-37 lead with 16:50 to go in the game. It would be their biggest lead of the half.
The Bulldogs would tie the game at 48 with 12:00 to go and took their first lead of the game at 57-56 with 7:18 to go. South Suburban held its biggest lead of the game at 64-61 with 4:00 to go when they had the ball and missed a wide open lay-up that would have given them a 5-point lead. Macomb stiffened up their defense after that and SSC would not score another made field goal. They would make only two free throws the rest of the way.
The loss drops SSC to 12-3 on the season.
South Suburban was led in scoring by sophomore Damonate Taylor’s 26 points. The only other double digit scorer for the Bulldogs was sophomore Rashard Harris who scored 13 points while grabbing a game high 9 rebounds.
SSC lost the game despite dominating the rebounding battle 42-31.
South Suburban shot 23/61 (37.7%) from the field, a dismal 1/11 (9.1%) from behind the “3”-point line, and 19/23 (82.6%) from the free throw line. Macomb shot 21/47 (44.7%) from the field, 5/15 (29.4%) from the “3”, and 24/34 (70.6%) from the free throw line.
The Bulldogs continue their road trip Tuesday, January 3rd verses Marian University’s Ancilla College in Plymouth, IN. Tip time is 7:00pm (EST).
January 3, 2023 – at Marian University’s Ancilla College in Plymouth, IN
The Bulldogs continued their four game stretch verses the Michigan Athletic Conference as they traveled to Plymouth, IN to play Marian University’s Ancilla College.
Coach Pigatti was without two of his top two scorers, as well as backup point guard Jeremiah Staten (torn ACL), and starting forward Delaware Hale (Sick). #10 SSC still prevailed and went home with a 89-76 victory.
The game started out slow as the score was only 2-2 after four minutes. It remained close the entire first half with SSC taking a slim 36-34 halftime lead.
The second half was another story. The Bulldogs jumped out with a 24-6 run to take a 60-40 lead with 12:30 left to go in the game. The Chargers would get as close as nine points at 74-65 with 2:40 left.
SSC would not fold and improved their season record to 13-3.
South Suburban was led in scoring by sophomore forward Damontae Taylor’s double/double as he scored a game high 28 points while grabbing 10 rebounds. Sophomore guard Christian Heffner took advantage of the first start of his career, scoring a career high 19 points while grabbing 7 rebounds. He was a perfect 9/9 from the free throw line in the last few minutes of the game. SSC sophomore guard Norman Haynes scored 15 points for the Bulldogs. SSC had two other players score in double figures. Chris Smith (10 pts/11 rebounds), and Rashard Harris (10 pts./6 rebounds).
South Suburban shot 33/68 (48.5%) from the field, 7/25 (28%) from behind the 3-point line, and 16/19 (84.2%) from the free throw line. Ancilla shot 25/67 (37.3%) from the field 4/18 (22.2%) from the “3”, and 22/25 (88%) from the free throw line.
The Bulldogs won he rebounding battle 42/38.
South Suburban returns home for their last game against a Michigan Athletic Conference foe. They host nationally ranked Kalamazoo Valley (MI) Community College on Thursday, January 5th. Tip time is 7:00 pm.
January 5 – vs. Kalamazoo Valley (MI) Community College in South Holland, IL
The #10 Bulldogs returned home for the first home game after the Christmas break. They hosted nationally ranked Kalamazoo Valley Community College out of Michigan. Coach Pigatti was without the services of Delaware Hale and Dominykas Ramonas, but was victorious in the end 89-70.
The Bulldogs (14-3) jumped out to an early 11-3 lead three minutes into the first half. They extended that lead to 36-20 with 5:23 before the break. SSC would lead 46-32 at halftime.
The Bulldogs would get the lead to as high as 28 points with a 77-49 lead with 8:00 left to go in the game. They held that margin at the 5:40 mark (82-54) before the 8-3 Cougars made a late run and closed the final margin to 19 points.
South Suburban was led in scoring by sophomore point guard Jalen Houston’s career high 26 points on 6/9 shooting from behind the “3” point line. Houston would also grabbed 6 rebounds, dish out 5 assist and snatched 5 steals. Bulldog sophomore Nakyel Shelton, recently named NJCAA Division II National Player of the Week, recorded his 10th double/double of the season when he scored 22 points and grabbed 10 rebounds. Sophomore forward Damontate Taylor was the only other Bulldog to score in double figures as he scored 16 points while dishing out 5 assists and blocking 4 shots.
South Suburban shot 39/69 (50.7%) from the field, 11/22 (50%) from the “3”, and 8/13 (61.5%) from the free throw line. Kalamazoo Valley would shoot 21/60 (35%) from the field, 4/24 (16.7%) from the “3”, and 24/31 (77.4%) from the free throw line.
South Suburban won the rebounding battle 39-31. They would also block a season high 11 shots.
The Bulldogs return to Region IV play this Saturday, January 7th as they host Illinois Valley Community College. Tip time is 3:00pm.
January 7 – vs. Illinois Valley Community College in South Holland, IL
The #10 Bulldogs got back to playing Region IV opponents as they hosted Illinois Valley. Pigatti’s squad was victorious 79-60 to improve to 15-3 on the season.
Illinois Valley opened up the game with a lot of energy. They took a 6-0 lead as SSC missed its first six shots of the game. The Eagles led 13-8 with 12:00 to go in the first half when South Suburban would tie the game at 15 with 10:42 to go. The game was still tied at 29 with 3:30 to go when former Illinois Valley Eagle and current Bulldog Norman Haynes made a three-point basket to give SSC the lead for good at 32-29 with 3:16 to go in the half. The Bulldogs took a 38-36 lead into the halftime break.
In the first five minutes of the second half, SSC jumped out to a 17-7 run to start and led 55-43. Illinois Valley would pull as close as eight (66-58) with 6:30 to go. South Suburban would hold them to two points the rest of the game for the 19-point victory.
South Suburban was led in scoring by sophomore guard Nakyel Shelton, who recorded his 12th double/double of the season as he scored 23 points while grabbing 19 rebounds. Sophomore forward Damontae Taylor would also record a double/double as he scored 21 points while grabbing 12 rebounds. Julius Byrd scored 9 points, grab 9 rebounds, and block 3 shots. It was the first game of the season for freshman guard. Sophomore forward Delaware Hale would grab 10 rebounds to help SSC dominate the rebounding battle 58-39.
South Suburban shot 29/82 (35.4%) from the field, 4/18 (22.2%) from the “3”, and 17/25 (68%) from the free throw line. Illinois Valley shot 24/66 (36.4%) from the field, 4/16 (25%) from the “3”, and 8/16 (50%) from the free throw line.
The Bulldogs continue their first home stand of 2023 by playing Region IV foe #16 Bryant & Stratton from Milwaukee on Saturday January 14th. Tip time is 3:00pm.
January 14 – vs. Bryant & Stratton College (WI) in South Holland, IL
The #8 Bulldogs played another Top 15 team as they hosted #15 Bryant & Stratton College (WI) in a big NJCAA Region IV matchup. SSC prevailed with an impressive 92-62 victory to improve to 16-3 on the season.
South Suburban jumped out early as they took a 8-1 lead three minutes into the contest. They extended that lead to 31-19 with 4:30 to go in the first half and went into the break with a 48-32 lead.
The Bulldogs extended the lead to 20 at 56-36 three minutes into the second half. Bryant & Stratton would make a 12-0 run, their only run of the game, and trailed 56-48 with 14:00 to go.
The Bulldogs would close the game on a 36-14 run to preserve the 30-point victory.
South Suburban was led in scoring by sophomore guard Nakyel Shelton who recorded his 13th double/double of the season. He scored 23 points while grabbing 11 rebounds. He would also dish out 5 assists. Sophomore forward Damontae Taylor would score 22 points, grab 6 rebounds, and dish out 5 assists of his own. Sophomore center Chris Smith would score 15 points and grab 10 rebounds while shooting 7/8 from the field. Sophomore forward Delaware Hale would be the only other Bulldog to score in double figures as he chipped in 10 points on a perfect 4/4 shooting.
South Suburban shot 38/75 (50.7%) from the field, 4/15 (26.7%) from behind the “3”-point line, and 10/17 (58.8%) from the free throw line. The Bobcats shot 19/68 (27.9%) from the field, 7/25 (28%) from the “3”, and 17/28 (60.7%) from the free throw line.
SSC dominated the rebounding battle 58-30.
January 18 – vs. Camp Battleground (CBG) Prep (MI) in South Holland, IL
The #7 Bulldogs hosted the Tigers of Camp Battleground (CBG) Prep from Michigan and were victorious 98-67. SSC (17-3) jumped out to an early 15-6 lead just under five minutes into the first half. However, CBG would go on a 16-7 run and tie the game at 22 with 10:50 before halftime. Pigatti’s Bulldogs answered that by going on a 21-7 run to make the lead 53-29 with 1:20 left to go. SSC would lead 53-31 at halftime.
South Suburban opened the second half on a 24-12 run to take a 77-44 lead at the 8:00 mark. They took their biggest lead at 96-57 with 4:00 left to go and finished with the 31-point victory.
The victory was the 37th straight home victory for the Bulldogs at the on Physical Fitness and Athletic Center. The last lost on campus was on February 8, 2020.
SSC had all five starters score in double figures. Sophomore forward Damontae Taylor led all scorers with 21 points. Sophomore guard Nakyel Shelton recorded his 14th double/double of the season as he scored 15 points, grabbed 11 rebounds and dished out 8 assists. Sophomores Jalen Houston, and Chris Smith scored 12 points a piece. Freshman guard Julius Byrd scored a career high 13 points while grabbing 4 rebounds and dishing out 6 assists. Smith blocked 4 shots as well.
South Suburban shot 44/76 (57.9%) from the field, 5/18 (27.8%) from behind the “3”-point line, and 5/6 (83.3%) from the free throw line. CBG shot 22/49 (44.9%) from the field, 8/19 (42.1%) from the “3”, and 15/24 (62.5%) from the free throw line, SSC won the rebounding battle 44-26.
South Suburban heads on the road January 24th to play nationally ranked Olive Harvey in Chicago. Game time is 7:30pm.
January 24 – at Olive Harvey College in Chicago, IL
The #6 Bulldogs went to Olive Harvey College to play their ninth game this season against a nationally ranked opponent. SSC was victorious, 85-60.
Olive Harvey led early 11-8 with 13:46 to go in the first half. SSC tied the game at 15 midway through the first half. The Bulldogs went on to outscore Olive Harvey 28-17 the rest of the half and led at halftime 42-32.
SSC opened up the second half on a 6-0 run to take a 49-32 lead in the first minute of the second half. The Bulldogs took their biggest lead of the game at 79-51 with 5:18 remaining and never looked back as they improve their record to 18-3 on the season.
South Suburban was led in scoring by sophomore guard Nakyel’s Shelton 28 points. He recorded his 15th double/double of the season as he grabbed 11 rebounds. Sophomore forward Damontae Taylor scored 21 points while snatching 6 steals. The only other Bulldog to score in double digits was sophomore point guard Jalen Houston. He scored 19 points while dishing out 5 assists, and snatching 6 steals of his own.
SSC won the rebounding battle 39-23.
South Suburban shot 33/56 (56.9%) from the field, 9/17 (52.9%) from behind the “3”-point line, and 10/16 (62.5%) from the free throw line. Olive Harvey shot 22/53 (41.5) from the field, 2/14 (14.3%) from the “3”, and 14/22 (63.6%) from the free throw line.
The Bulldogs game on January 26th vs. SEMO Prep was rescheduled to February 16th at 7:00pm. The next game for SSC is January 28th when they play at Region IV foe Black Hawk College. Tip time is 3:00pm.
January 28 – at Black Hawk College in Moline, IL
The #6 Bulldogs went on the road to Moline, IL for a Region IV matchup at Black Hawk College. Pigatti’s jumped out to an early lead and never looked back in their 108-68 victory.
SSC opened the game with 12-3 run then added 20 points the to lead making it 45-24 at just the 4:00 into the contest.
They took a 66-40 lead into the halftime break.
The game never got any closer and the Bulldogs 40-point victory improved their record to 19-3 on the season.
South Suburban was led in scoring by sophomore guard Nakyel Shelton’s 35 points. Shelton also grabbed 6 rebounds and dished out 3 assists. Sophomore forward Damontae Taylor scored 25 points and dished out 5 assists for SSC as well. The only other double digit scorer for the Bulldogs was freshman guard Julius Byrd who scored 10 points who also dished out 7 assists to help SSC record their highest assists total of the year, 26 assists on 43 made baskets.
South Suburban shot 43/671 (60.6%) from the field, 10/19 (52.6%) from behind the “3”-point line, and 12/18 (66.7%) from the free throw line.
Black Hawk College does not keep statistics at their game so their statistics are not known.
The Bulldogs next game is at NJCAA Division 1 Kankakee Community College. The game is Tuesday January 31st. Tip time is 7:30pm.
January 31 – at Kankakee Community College in Kankakee, IL
South Suburban Men’s Basketball has won 53 games over the past two season and have only had two victory margins come within single digits. This game was the second one.
The #6 Bulldogs (NJCAA-D2) visited Kankakee Community College (NJCAA-D1) and were victorious over the Cavaliers, 79-73, improving their record to 20-3 on the season
SSC jumped out to an early 5-0 lead. Then Kankakee went on a 16-4 run and took a 16-9 lead 6:40 into of the game. SSC would then tie the game at 29 with 5:00 to go in the first half and took a 34-33 advantage into the break.
Kankakee led 38-36 2:30 into the final session. SSC then tied the game at 41 at the 4:08 mark. The Bulldogs would proceed to go on a 18-4 run and took a 59-45 lead with 10:00 left to go. Kankakee closed the game on a 28-20 run for the final six-point margin.
South Suburban had two players score in double digits as they both also recorded double/doubles. Sophomore forward Damontae Taylor scored 29 points while grabbing 13 rebounds and sophomore guard Nakyel Shelton scored 24 points while grabbing 10 rebounds.
SSC won the rebounding battle 41-32.
South Suburban shot 29/61 (47.5%) from the field, 6/13 (46.2%) from behind the “3”-point line, and 15/21 (71.4%) from the free throw line. Kankakee shot 27/61 (44.3%) from the field, 8/23 (34.8%) from the “3”, and 11/14 (78.6%) from the free throw line.
South Suburban is in the midst of a grueling three games in five days stretch of the schedule. They return to the home hardwood for a contest Thursday, February 2nd at 7:00 when they host #3 ranked Milwaukee Area Tech.
February 2 – vs. Milwaukee Area Technical College (WI) in South Holland, IL
It was a battle of the top two ranked Region IV teams, as well as two of the top ten teams in the nation, when #3 Milwaukee Area Tech (MATC) Stormers visited the #6 Bulldogs of South Suburban College. In the end, South Suburban impressively defeated MATC 102-68.
The win improved SSC’s record to 21-3 on the season.
The Bulldogs jumped out to an early 29-8 lead with 9:00 left to go in the first half, and never looked back. They took a 51-30 lead into the halftime break.
The second half was even worse for the visitors. The Bulldogs jumped out with a 28-15 run to take a 79-45 lead with 10:00 left to go in the game. SSC did get the lead to 40 at 98-58 with 3:30 to go.
The 34-points were the biggest margin of victory over a nationally ranked team during Coach Pigatti’s 17 seasons at South Suburban College.
The Bulldogs were led in scoring by sophomore guard Nakyel Shelton’s 38 points (24 came in the first half). He also recorded his 17th double/double of the season as he grabbed 13 rebounds. SSC sophomore guard Jalen Houston (a MATC transfer) scored 20 points against his old school. He also dished out 5 assists and snatched 6 steals. The only other double digit scorer for SSC was sophomore forward Damontae Taylor. He scored 12 points while grabbing 7 rebounds, dishing out 6 assists and snatching 5 steals.
The Bulldogs won the rebounding battle 47-38.
South Suburban shot 39/83 (47%) from the field, 6/20 (30%) from behind the “3”-point line, and 18/23 (78.3%) from the free throw line. Milwaukee Area Tech shot 25/68 (36.8%) from the field, 2/19 (10.5%) from the “3”, and 16/26 (61.5%) from the free throw line.
The Bulldogs also forced 24 MATC turnovers.
South Suburban does not get much rest from the big victory as they travel to Parkland College in Champaign, IL for a 3:00pm tip on February 4th. This will be their last game of the three games in five days.
February 4 – at Parkland College in Champaign, IL
The #6 Bulldogs travel to Parkland College to play without their leading scorer and rebounder sophomore guard Nakyel Shelton (Ankle Sprain). They did not have enough firepower and lost 79-74 to fall to 21-4 on the season.
SSC jumped out to a 9-2 lead but couldn’t extend it, going into halftime leading 37-33.
The second half was one for the ages. The Bulldogs opened it up with a 5-0 run to take their biggest lead of the game at 42-33 two minutes into the half. Parkland went on a 10-0 run of their own and take a 43-42 lad with 14:20 to go.
The lead would change 15 times and the score was tied 13 times while both teams battled until the end.
SSC led 71-70 with 2:20 left to go. Parkland tied the game at 71 with 40 second to left in the game. The Bulldogs turned the ball over and Parkland had the stage set for some heroics. Parkland made a deep “3” to take a 74-71 lead with :04 to go. The Bulldogs had one last chance, but turned the ball again over on the ensuing inbounds pass.
SSC would then foul Parkland, who made 22 of 24 free throws. The two made free throws sealed their victory.
South Suburban was led in scoring by freshman guard Julius Byrd. He scored a career high 23 points. Two other Bulldogs scored in double figures, sophomores Damontae Taylor (15 pts.) and Christian Heffner who had 10 pts on 8/8 from the free throw line).
South Suburban shot 25/56 (44.6%) from the field, 5/15 (33.3%) from behind the “3”-point line, and 19/24 (79.2%) from the free throw line. Parkland shot 24/51 (47.1%) from the field, 9/20 (45%) from the “3”, and 91.7% from the free throw line.
The Bulldogs return home Tuesday, February 7th for a game against The Bosco Institute of Crown Point, IN. Before the game, SSC’s Head Coach John Pigatti will be honored for his recent induction into the NJCAA Region IV Hall of Fame. Tip time is 7:00pm.
February 7 – vs. The Bosco Institute (IN) in South Holland, IL
The #8 Bulldogs won their 39th straight home game in the on campus Physical Activities Center when they defeated The Bosco Institute of Crown Point, IN 93-59. They played their second consecutive game without sophomore guard Nakyel Shelton (sprained ankle), the Bulldogs’ leading scorer and rebounder.
SSC started out the game with an early 16-5 lead 6 minutes into the first half, They would expand that lead to 48-26 at halftime.
The Bulldogs only could expand the lead by two points at 69-43 with 10:00 left to go in the game. That changed as Pigatti’s squad closed the game on a 24-16 run to win by their largest point margin of the game at 34. South Suburban improved its record to 22-4 on the season.
The Bulldogs were led in scoring by sophomore point guard Jalen Houston who scored 21 points while dishing out 6 assists. Sophomore forward Damontae Taylor recorded a double/double for the Bulldogs as he scored 15 points while grabbing 11 rebounds. The other Bulldogs finishing in double digits were freshman guard Julius Byrd (13 points), sophomore forward Rashard Harris (11 points) and freshman forward LeQuan Washington (10 points).
SSC narrowly won the rebounding battle 42-41.
South Suburban shot 36/77 (46.8%) from the field, 8/17 (47.1%) from behind the 3-point line, and 13/23 (56.5%) from the free throw line. The Bosco Institute shot 20/58 (34.5%) from the field, 2/15 (13.3%) from the “3”, and 17/24 (70.8%) from the free throw line.
They head out back on the road, traveling to Wisconsin February 11th for a 3:00pm tip vs. Madison College.
February 11 – at Madison College in Madison, WI
The #8 Bulldogs traveled to Madison, Wisconsin to take on Madison College and beat the Wolfpack 83-62. Although the Bulldogs jumped out to an early lead, they played very lackluster over the last 30 minutes but were still victorious.
SSC opened the game on a 12-0 run. They led 31-9 with 11:00 into the first half then, according to Head Coach John Pigatti, played lackluster the rest of the way.
They led 43-21 at halftime.
After SSC (23-4) scored on the first possession of the second half, Madison went on a 13-4 run and cut into SSC’s lead at 49-34, but would never get closer.
The Bulldogs would gain their biggest lead of the game at 79-55 with 3:00 to go in the game. The game would wind down to a SSC victory margin of 21 points.
The Bulldogs were led in scoring by sophomore guard Nakyel Shelton’s 20 points. They would have four other players score in double figures. Sophomores Jalen Houston (16 pts.), Chris Smith and Delaware Hale contributed with 10 points a piece. The only other Bulldogs in double figures was freshman guard Julius Byrd who scored 11 points of his own.
South Suburban was out rebounded 33-31, however they did have 21 assists on 28 made basketballs.
South Suburban shot 28-59 (47.5%) from the field, 6/21 (28.6%) from behind the “3”-point line, and 21-29 (72.4%) from the free throw line. Madison shot 18-52 (34.6%) from the field, 3/17 (17.6%) from the “3”, and 23-28 (82.1%) from the free throw line.
The Bulldogs’s play their final home game against Southeast Missouri Prep February 16th at 7:00pm. Three players from last year’s national championship team will be honored on Sophomore Night. Damontae Taylor, Chris “CJ” Smith, and Christian Heffner will be presented with a two-year recognition award.
February 16 – vs. Southeast Missouri Prep in South Holland, IL
It was Two-Year Recognition Night for the three Bulldogs that were part of last years’ 33-0 National Championship Team. Damontae Taylor, Chris “CJ” Smith, and Christian Heffner were honored before the game. They received a 2-year special award plaque and a National Championship tumbler. Taylor was also presented with a 1000 Point ball as he scored his 1000th point as a Bulldog on January 31st in a game at Kankakee Community College.
After the ceremony, the #5 Bulldogs then finished the home portion of their regular season unblemished (17-0) with a 102-68 victory over Southeast Missouri Prep. They have won 40 straight home games at the on campus facility. Their last loss was February 8, 2020.
Coach John Pigatti’s home record at South Suburban College is 268-15 (.947).
SSC jumped out to an early 30-9 lead at the 11:30 mark of the first half. They extended the lead to 51-22 by halftime.
SEMO Prep jumped on the Bulldogs to start the second half, going on a 8-2 run to cut the lead to 53-30.
Coach Pigatti subbed out all the starters and SSC proceeded to go on a 8-0 run of their own. SEMO Prep never go any closer.
The victory improves the Bulldog’s record to 24-4 on the season.
Every player scored for SSC, including four sophomores, scored were in double figures. Guards Nakyel Shelton had 23 points and Jalen Houston ended with 22 pts. Taylor chipped in 18 points and Heffner had 10. Houston also recorded a double/double as he dished out 11 assists. SSC sophomore center Chris Smith blocked a career high 10 shots during the game.
South Suburban shot 40-69 (58%) from the field, 10/18 (55.6%) from behind the “3”-point line, and 12/19 (63.2%) from the free throw line. SEMO Prep shot 25/67 (37.3%) from the field, 3/12 (25%) from the “3”, and 15/27 (55.6%) from the free throw line.
The Bulldogs finish up the 2022-23 campaign on the road next week for two games. Tuesday February 21st at Kishwaukee College in Malta, IL. and Thursday February 23rd at #10 Danville Area Community College in Danville.
February 21 – at Kishwaukee College in Malta, IL
The Bulldogs improved to 25-4 on the season with a convincing road victory at Kishwaukee College, 104-47.
SSC jumped out early and took a 52-25 lead into the halftime break.
They opened up the second half on a 27-7 run. Coach Pigatti subbed his starters out midway through the second half and they got the lead to as much as 61 points (100-39). The Bulldogs then coasted to the victory. They ended up the year with a perfect regular season record against their NJCAA Region IV opponents.
The Bulldogs were led in scoring by sophomores Nakyel Shelton 31 points who was 8/10 from the “3”. 2nd year forward Damontae Taylor (21 points, 6 assists and 4 steals) and freshman guard Julius Byrd (16 points) were the other double digit scorers for SSC. SSC’s guard Jalen Houston dished out 9 assists. Sophomore Chris Smith had 8 blocks at the 5 spot.
South Suburban shot 43/67 (64.2%) from the field, 8/18 (44.4%) from the “3” (all made by Shelton), and 10/12 (83.3%) from the free throw line. The Kougars shot 15/49 (30.6%) from the field, 3/9 (33.3%) from the “3”, and 14/23 (60.9%) from the free throw line.
South Suburban’s bench out scored Kishwaukee’s bench 34-03 and won the rebounding battle 34-27.
The Bulldogs finish the regular season Thursday, February 23rd with a huge Top 10 match up. They play at #7 Danville Area Community College. It will be the first time Pigatti’s team plays in the Mary Miller Center since winning the National Championship Tournament last March.
Game time is 7:00pm.
February 23 – at Danville Area Community College in Danville, IL
The #5 Bulldogs lost to #7 Danville Area Community College Jaguars, 77-64 at the Mary Miller Center in Danville. It was the third time this season SSC, from Region IV, played at a Region 24 opponent.
In those three games, the host Region 24 team shot a total of 96 free throws while SSC shot 53.
After going into halftime with a 42-30 lead, the Bulldogs held a 61-57 lead with 6:00 to go and proceeded to only score three points for the remainder of the game. They were outscored 47-22 in the second half, the worst point differential margin in a half during the 17 seasons Coach John Pigatti has been at the helm.
The Jaguars outshot SSC 24-4 at the free throw line in the second half.
South Suburban had four starters score in double digits. Sophomore guard Jalen Houston scored 18, Nakyel Shelton scored 16 points with only two in the second half, Damontae Taylor had 11 points and freshman guard Julius Byrd finished with 11 pts. South Suburban’s bench only scored four points while Danville’s bench scored 42.
Danville out-rebounded SSC 40-26.
South Suburban shot 25/60 (41/7%) from the field, 3/15 (20%) from behind the “3” point line, and 11/16 from the free throw line. Danville shot 23/49 (46.9%) for the game, 4/13 (30.8%) from the “3”, and 27/32 (84.4 %) from the free throw line.
South Suburban finished the regular season at with a 25-5 record. They open NJCAA Region IV post-season play Thursday March 2nd as the top seed in the tournament. The first game will be at the Athletic and Physical Fitness Center at 7:00pm verses an opponent to be named later.
NJCAA REGION IV DIVISION II MIDWEST DISTRICT A TOURNAMENT ROUND TWO
March 2 – vs Oakton Community College at South Suburban College in South Holland, IL.
The #7 ranked Bulldogs opened up the 2023 REGION IV (Midwest District A) tournament play as the No. 1 seed and proved why with a resounding 96-72 home victory over the No. 9 Oakton Community College Owls. The victory finished SSC’s 2022-23.home schedule with another undefeated season on their home floor. They are 269-15 (.947) at home during Coach Pigatti’s 17 season at SSC, winning 41 straight home games at the Athletic & Physical Fitness Center. Their last loss in South Holland was Feb 8, 2020.
SSC (26-5) opened the game up on a 27-7 run and went into the halftime break with a 51-30 lead.
They started the second half on a 16-4 run and took a 67-34 lead at the 4:31 mark. They held their biggest lead at 89-54 with 5:30 to go. The Owls finished on a 10-0 run to close to within 24 points.
South Suburban was led in scoring by sophomore guard Nakyel Sheldon, one of three Bulldogs to finish with a double/double. Sheldon scored 30 points and grabbed 16 rebounds for his 18th double/double of the season, sophomore guard Jalen Houston scored 23 points while dishing out 10 assists and sophomore forward Damontae Taylor scored 21 points while dishing out 10 assists.
South Suburban shot 40/69 (58%) from the field, 11/22 (50%) from behind the “3”-point line, and 5/8 (62.5%) from the free throw line. Oakton shot 23/52 (44.2%) from the field, 5/10 (50%) from the “3”, and 21/23 (91.3%) from the free throw line. SSC won the rebounding battle 37-28. The Bulldogs advance to the Midwest District-A Semifinal game at Rock Valley College in Rockford, IL. verses Waubonsee Community College on Sunday March 5th. Tip time is 12 noon.
NJCAA REGION IV DIVISION II MIDWEST DISTRICT A TOURNAMENT SEMIFINAL
March 5 – vs Waubonsee Community College at South Suburban College in South Holland, IL.
For only the second time in 17 seasons at South Suburban College, Coach John Pigatti’s team was defeated in the Regional semifinals as No. 1 SSC lost to No. 3 Waubonee Community College 70-59 to finish their season with a record of 26-6.
Pigatti’s record in Region IV tournament play is 39-5.
South Suburban’s big three did not show up for this game. They all were held under their averages and shot it poorly. Sophomores guards Nakyel Shelton and Jalen Houston were a combined 8/31 from the field, 0/10 from behind the three-point line. Sophomore forward Damontae Taylor, a returning starter from last years 33-0 National Championship Team, only scored 7 points. Taylor has averaged 18 point a game all season.
South Suburban scored the first basket of the game, but could not extend that positive start. The Chiefs made eight three-point baskets in the first half and took a 37-33 lead into the halftime break.
The host Bulldogs tied the game at 45 with 12:00 to go, but never got any closer.
South Suburban was led in scoring by freshman guard Julius Byrd’s 17 points. Houston scored 13 points and Shelton, who averages 24 points a game, only scored 11. SSC shot a chilly 22-69 (31.9%) from the field. They were 8/38 (21.2%) in the second half. They shot 3/19 (15.8%) from the “3”, and were 0/11 in the second half. They also shot 12/16 from the free throw line. Waubonsee shot 23/54 (42.6%) from the field, 10/24 (41.7%) from the “3”, and 14/23 (60.9%) from the free throw line.
South Suburban did win the rebounding battle 44-40. They also had less turnovers than Waubonsee (18-15), but could not offset their extremely poor shooting performance.
If you are interested in recaps of past Bulldogs’ seasons, go to our Men’s Basketball Recap Archive web page.