The Jaguars were riding a three-game hot streak heading into the conference championship game against St. Francis, but they couldn’t match the Fighting Saints in the finale, dropping a hard-fought clash 81-73.
The Jaguars kept the game close in the first half, trailing by just one point at 39–38 heading into the break. However, St. Francis used a strong second half to gradually build a lead and secure the championship.
Leading the Jaguars was Javonte McKenzie, who scored 22 points on 8-of-11 shooting while knocking down two three-pointers and adding four rebounds.
Maxwell Marius also delivered a strong performance with 12 points and eight rebounds, while Javon Johnson contributed 10 points, four rebounds, and three assists.
In the paint, Vincent Mayes added 10 points, six rebounds, and two blocks, continuing his strong interior play.
The Jaguars finished the season with an impressive 22–9 record, battling all the way to the conference championship and closing out a successful year of strong team performances and postseason play.
GovState had won three strong games before the championship contest, giving them high hopes for a shot at the title.
Governors State 107, Judson 55
Governors State delivered one of its most complete performances of the season on Feb. 21, rolling past Judson 107–55 behind an explosive offensive effort.
The Jaguars set the tone early, building a 46–30 halftime lead before erupting for 61 points in the second half to put the game well out of reach. GovState shot nearly 60% from the field and moved the ball exceptionally well, finishing with 27 assists on 42 made baskets.
Leading the scoring charge was Trae Warren, who poured in 26 points off the bench while knocking down four three-pointers and grabbing eight rebounds in an efficient performance.
Inside, Javonte McKenzie recorded a double-double with 13 points and 10 rebounds while also adding three assists and two steals. Maxwell Marius contributed 13 points, eight rebounds, and four steals, while Vincent Mayes added 13 points and four blocks in a strong defensive showing.
Running the offense was Isaiah Tolbert, who dished out 11 assists while adding 11 points and three rebounds in just 13 minutes of action.
The Jaguars also received solid contributions throughout the lineup, with Rickey Woods III adding eight points and Deven Jiles chipping in eight of his own as GovState’s depth helped power the blowout victory.
Governors State 76, Indiana Northwest 67
Governors State closed out the regular season with a strong home win, defeating Indiana Northwest 76–67 in a balanced team effort.
The Jaguars built momentum early, taking a 41–32 lead into halftime and maintaining control throughout the second half to secure the nine-point victory.
Leading the way offensively was Maxwell Marius, who scored 20 points while going 10-for-12 from the free throw line and adding six rebounds.
Antonio Phillips delivered an extremely efficient performance, finishing with 18 points on a perfect 7-for-7 shooting night while also grabbing five rebounds and protecting the rim with a block.
Ladaion Barnes added 16 points and pulled down a game-high 10 rebounds to record a double-double while also contributing four assists.
In the paint, Vincent Mayes provided another strong interior presence with 17 points, seven rebounds, and three blocks, helping anchor the Jaguars defensively.
Governors State controlled the glass with a 36–27 rebounding advantage and used steady defense down the stretch to secure the win heading into postseason play.
Governors State 73, Trinity Christian 69 (OT)
Governors State battled through a tightly contested matchup with Trinity Christian, ultimately coming away with a 73–69 overtime victory in front of the home crowd.
The Jaguars led by six at halftime and maintained the advantage for much of regulation, but Trinity Christian rallied late to force overtime. In the extra period, GovState responded with a 10–6 scoring edge to secure the win.
Leading the Jaguars was Vincent Mayes, who finished with 17 points, four rebounds, and an impressive five blocks while providing a strong defensive presence in the paint.
Trae Warren added 15 points and knocked down two three-pointers while converting key free throws late in the game.
Javon Johnson chipped in 12 points and four assists while also recording three steals to help spark the Jaguars defensively.
Inside, Maxwell Marius contributed 10 points and 10 rebounds for a double-double, while Javonte McKenzie added six points, seven rebounds, and four assists in a strong all-around effort.
The Jaguars used balanced scoring and strong defensive play in overtime to close out the hard-fought victory.