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Vincennes University

No. 10 Trailblazers Deliver Strong Road Win at Wabash Valley

No. 10 Trailblazers Deliver Strong Road Win at Wabash Valley
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February 28, 2026

MOUNT CARMEL, Ill. — The No. 10 Vincennes University Men's Basketball team continued its push towards a championship Saturday night, earning a 91–60 Region 24 road victory over Wabash Valley College to improve to 27–2 overall and 13–2 in region play.

Facing a red-hot Wabash Valley squad on its sophomore night inside a challenging road environment, the Trailblazers set the tone early and never allowed the game to tighten. VU built a 40–30 halftime advantage before extending the margin throughout the second half, outscoring the Warriors 51–30 after the break to secure the decisive win.

Following the game, NJCAA Hall of Fame Head Coach Todd Franklin, now in his 16th season leading the Trailblazers, emphasized the importance of the result as postseason positioning continues to take shape. "This was a big win for us," Franklin said. "We needed it to keep our number one seed hopes alive against a very good, very hot Wabash Valley team on their home floor. I thought our guys handled the environment and the moment really well."

VU delivered one of its most efficient offensive performances of the season, shooting 54.2 percent from the field and a blistering 50.0 percent from three-point range (12-of-24) while converting 78.9 percent at the free-throw line (15-19). The Trailblazers also controlled possessions with a 37–28 rebounding edge, recorded 23 assists on 32 made baskets, and committed just eight turnovers, continuing a stretch of improved offensive rhythm.

Sophomore guard Dayton Williams led the way with 27 points, shooting 10-of-17 from the field and 6-of-8 from three-point range, while adding three rebounds and three assists. Franklin praised Williams' shot selection and composure. "Dayton had an excellent night," Franklin said. "He shot the ball as well as he has in a while because he took good shots and stayed balanced. When he does that, he's capable of big nights."

Sophomore guard Jalen Calloway added 19 points and six assists, while freshman guard Drae Vasser contributed 16 points, six assists, and five rebounds as the Trailblazers' backcourt continued to dictate tempo. Off the bench, Jevon Guess delivered a much-needed interior presence with 12 points and a team-high 10 rebounds.

Additionally, Franklin highlighted freshman guard Elijah Lovemore's defensive impact as a significant factor in the outcome. "Elijah was huge for us," Franklin said. "He guarded one of their hottest scorers and made things extremely difficult for him. Those are the things coaches notice — the toughness and defensive effort he's bringing right now."

Defensively, VU limited Wabash Valley to 41.4 percent shooting overall and just 3-of-15 from three-point range (20.0 percent), maintaining consistent pressure while forcing difficult perimeter looks. Franklin credited the team's recent defensive consistency as a major reason for the current momentum. "I think we've bounced back really well from the Kaskaskia loss," Franklin said. "We've opened the floor offensively, but more importantly our defense has stayed solid. Holding teams to 68 and now 60 while scoring the way we have says a lot about where we're headed."

The Trailblazers will return home next to host Southwestern Illinois College on Tuesday, March 3 at 7 p.m. ET inside the P.E. Complex. The contest will serve as the final regular season game, while also recognizing the program's sophomores during Sophomore Night festivities. Vincennes defeated Southwestern Illinois earlier this season, 62–57 on January 28, in Belleville.

Tuesday's game will also serve as Isaiah 117 House Night, raising awareness and support for a Knox County organization that provides safe, comforting spaces for children awaiting foster placement. Isaiah 117 House works to reduce trauma for children removed from unsafe situations, lighten the load for child welfare services, and ease the transition for foster families by providing clean clothes, toys, and compassionate care during difficult moments.

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