STRENGTH IN EVERY STEP: #6 MEN’S BASKETBALL COMPETES FOR THE NJAC CHAMPIONSHIP

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SEPTEMBER 28, 2026 • 8:31 PM • MONTCLAIR, NJ

Montclair State University stands on the brink of a defining moment. The #6 Red Hawks, fueled by purpose and unwavering belief, charge into the NJAC Championship determined to claim back‑to‑back conference titles. On Saturday afternoon, inside the electric walls of the Panzer Athletic Center, they face a surging, receiving‑votes TCNJ squad—an opponent worthy of respect, but one the Red Hawks are fully prepared to overcome with conviction, discipline, and championship poise.

GAME INFO

Tip-off ignites at 1:00 p.m. inside the Panzer Athletic Center, where the energy will be unmistakable and the stakes undeniable.

Comprehensive live coverage awaits at montclairathletics.com, ensuring every fan stays connected to the action.

LAST TIME OUT — A STATEMENT OF RESILIENCE

Montclair State’s semifinal victory over Rowan was not merely a win—it was a declaration of dominance, composure, and unbreakable resolve. The Red Hawks (25‑1) opened the game with explosive confidence: a Myles Primas dunk, a Cristian Nicholson three, and a relentless offensive rhythm that set the tone early.

Key highlights from the battle:

• Kabrién Goss ignited a long‑range showcase, burying multiple threes that stretched the lead and forced Rowan into repeated regrouping.
• Jacob Morales delivered clutch shot after clutch shot, stabilizing momentum whenever Rowan threatened to surge.

• Kunga Tsering and Ryan Cassels connected on a deep-range dagger that halted a Rowan push and reasserted Montclair’s control.
• Rowan briefly seized a 50–42 lead early in the second half, but Montclair responded with championship-level composure.
• A 32–7 Red Hawk avalanche, sparked by Cevis, Cassels, Nicholson, and Primas, flipped the game entirely and showcased Montclair’s ability to elevate under pressure.
• Down the stretch, Montclair sealed the win with flawless free‑throw shooting and suffocating defensive execution.

The final: 89–75, a victory built on grit, precision, and the unwavering belief that this team is built for moments exactly like this.

TEAM LEADERS — THE ENGINES OF EXCELLENCE

Montclair State (25–1, 17–1 NJAC)

• Points: Jacob Morales — 19.3
• Rebounds: Jacob Morales — 6.1
• FG%: Kunga Tsering — .647
• 3PT%: Ahmad Robertson — .490
• FT%: Kabrién Goss — .870
• Assists: Kabrién Goss — 151
• Steals: Cristian Nicholson — 49
• Blocks: Myles Primas — 23

These numbers reflect more than statistics—they represent leadership, consistency, and the collective determination that has propelled Montclair to national prominence.

TCNJ (20–6, 14–4 NJAC)

• Points: Nick Koch — 22.7
• Rebounds: Matthew Solomon — 11.3
• FG%: Khalid Bakare — .540
• 3PT%: Mason Mangione — .392
• FT%: Jonathan Okocha — .803
• Assists: Nick Koch — 120
• Steals: Two tied at 34
• Blocks: Matthew Solomon — 10

TCNJ brings firepower, discipline, and momentum—but Montclair has faced and conquered challenges of equal magnitude all season.

SCOUTING TCNJ — A FORMIDABLE CHALLENGER

The Lions enter the championship having won 10 of their last 11, carrying confidence and cohesion. As the tournament’s second seed, they earned their place with a 76–66 win over Stockton. Last season, they reached the NCAA Tournament and pushed Pitt‑Bradford to the brink in a 98–96 thriller.

The preseason poll projected TCNJ as Montclair’s closest competitor—and now that prediction becomes reality. They are talented, hungry, and determined. But Montclair has already proven it can rise above every challenge placed in its path.

SERIES HISTORY — A RIVALRY BUILT ON INTENSITY

This marks the 182nd meeting between these storied programs. Montclair leads the all‑time series 105–75, including victories in nine of the last ten matchups. The rivalry is fierce, the history deep, and the stakes higher than ever.

LAST MEETING — THE LESSON THAT FUELED THE FIRE

Just last week, TCNJ handed Montclair its only loss of the season, a 94–85 setback in Ewing. That defeat did not weaken the Red Hawks—it sharpened them. It clarified their purpose. It reminded them that championships are earned through response, not perfection.

Saturday is the moment to reclaim the narrative.

THE ENERGY MOVING FORWARD

Montclair State enters the NJAC Finals with talent, unity, and an unshakeable belief in its championship identity. Every possession, every rebound, every defensive stand will be fueled by the conviction that this team is built to finish what it started.

The Red Hawks are not just playing for a title—they are playing to affirm their legacy.

SOURCE CREDIT: montclairathletics.com/news