The #1 ranked team in NJCAA DII proved resilient in an 83-78 win over NIACC on Saturday, March 4, 2017, in Mason City.  The win gave Southwestern an 11-1 ICCAC record and the first-ever outright title in program history; two times before they had earned a share of the title.  Along with making program history, it gives the Spartans the top seed in the Region XI tournament, as well as the home-court advantage throughout the tournament. 

"I'm proud of our guys and this accomplishment," said Spartan Head Coach Todd Lorensen.  It will be something to look back at down the road with great pride, but right now we are 0-0 like everyone else in the tournament.  Our focus needs to be better than ever."

Brodric Thomas (pictured) had a big night with 28 points, five rebounds, five steals, and three assists.  Jordan Johnson was also stellar with 19 points, three assists, and three steals.  KeShawn Wilson added nine points while Jamil Maddred had nine points and seven rebounds.  As a team, the Spartans overcame a rough night at the charity stripe going just 15-31.

"In retrospect, it worked out well to have to survive a game within a possession down the stretch.  We will be in that situation again during tournament play," said Lorensen.

Region XI play begins on Tuesday, March 7, as the Spartans host Little Priest Tribal College at 7 p.m. in the Southwestern Student Center gymnasium.  The two teams played back to back nights at Little Priest in mid-December with Southwestern winning both by scores of 99-74 and 107-69.

"They have improved significantly since those games during the first semester.  During March you can't take anything for granted, and we certainly understand that, after not protecting our home court last year during Region XI play," stated Lorensen.