Riverland Community College picked up a crucial NJCAA National Tournament win 70-66 over Joliet (IL) on March 14 in Herkimer, New York. 

The Blue Devils leaned on their interior presence and defensive effort overall, especially in the second half. Riverland led 32–27 going into the break. The Blue Devils led by as much as 18 points in the second half and managed to maintain that edge despite a push from Joliet down the stretch. 

Riverland's ability to control the glass proved to be a difference-maker, outrebounding Joliet 44–37, including 35 defensive rebounds to limit second-chance opportunities. The Devils also protected the rim with 8 blocks as a team.

Freshman guard De'Vaun Suggs-Dabney (St. Paul, MN) poured in a team-high 20 points (8-14 FG) & snatched 6 rebounds. Sophomore forward Tristan Coleman (Maywood, IL) 17 points, 7 rebounds, 4 assists & 3 rebounds. Freshman guard Cam Fearon (Margate, FL) 16 points & snatched 6 rebounds. Freshman guard Isaiah Lindor (Miami, FL) 8 points & snatched 5 rebounds.

Joliet was led by Levi Goad's 24 points and Jeff Fleming's 19-point, 13-rebound double-double, but struggled to find consistent offense, shooting just 35.7% from the field with Riverland's suffocating defense.

Despite going just 2-of-11 from three-point range, Riverland made enough plays late and converted key free throws (12-of-16) to secure the win.

#2 Devils finish the season 31-3 (11-1 MCAC South) with the win.