No. 4 Trailblazers Outlast Columbia State to Sweep Kiwanis Classic

VINCENNES, Ind. — The Vincennes University Men's Basketball team, ranked #4 in the NJCAA Division I Preseason Coaches Poll, wrapped up a statement opening weekend Saturday night with an 81–68 victory over Columbia State Community College on day two of the Kiwanis Classic at the P.E. Complex. The Trailblazers improve to 2–0 overall, while Columbia State—receiving votes in the Preseason Coaches Poll—drops to 0–2.

VU battled through a physical contest that featured early foul trouble and contrasting styles. Columbia State attempted 42 free throws on the night—including 24 in the first half—but the Trailblazers' depth, rebounding, and second-half efficiency proved decisive. "It was a really hard, physical game, and that's exactly why we scheduled it," said NJCAA Hall of Fame Head Coach Todd Franklin, now in his 16th season at the helm. "They relentlessly attack you. It's difficult to guard that this early in the year, but I thought our guys persevered and learned a lot about what it takes to compete at a championship level."

VU finished the night shooting 45 percent from the field and 33 percent from three-point range, while holding Columbia State to 35 percent overall. The Trailblazers also recorded 22 assists on 27 made field goals and outrebounded the Chargers 34–27.

Sophomore Jalen Calloway led a balanced attack with 18 points on 4-of-11 shooting, including three three-pointers and a 7-for-8 showing at the free-throw line. Sophomore Dayton Williams added a double-double with 17 points and 11 rebounds, continuing to impact the game with his athleticism, shot-making, and activity on both ends.

Freshman point guard Drae Vasser delivered an impressive all-around effort, finishing with 17 points, seven assists, and four rebounds while guiding the offense with poise. Freshman Lorenzo Malagnini continued his strong early-season play inside, adding 15 points, eight rebounds, and two blocks, while freshman Alex Montes rounded out the scoring leaders with 11 points, two assists, and a block off the bench.

"Mala (Malagnini) was huge for us," Franklin said. "He's tough as nails in there, and we're not winning without the presence he gave us inside. He was banging, getting position, and giving us the force you must have if you want to be a real contender."

Franklin also praised the play of Vasser and Williams for their composure against an aggressive opponent. "Drae had a good weekend of learning the point," Franklin said. "He's figuring out when to attack and when to facilitate. And Dayton—he was battling inside all night against a very physical team. He didn't need the double-teams we had planned because he handled it himself."

The Trailblazers led 34–28 at halftime and used a key 9-0 run early in the second half to stretch the margin into double digits, never allowing the Chargers closer than eight the rest of the way. "I thought this was a really good weekend for us," Franklin said. "You've got to teach guys the intensity level it takes to win at the highest level—those Final Four-type games—and that's what these two nights were about."

VU will have little time to rest before returning to action, as the Trailblazers host Macomb Community College on Tuesday, November 4 at 7 p.m. ET at the P.E. Complex. "Macomb is really good—30-and-6 last year—and it's the kind of game that can sneak up on you if you're not focused," Franklin said. "We've played two hard, physical games in two nights. We'll have to rest, regroup, and be ready to go again Tuesday."

Hear more from Coach Franklin by clicking here.

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