Montgomery County Community College Captures North Atlantic District Championship

Spartan Center | February 28, 2026

The Montgomery County Community College men's basketball team etched its name in program history Saturday afternoon, knocking off nationally ranked powerhouse Salem Community College, 58–55, to claim the North Atlantic District Championship.

Facing the #1 seed and 30-2 Salem squad, Montco (21-4) delivered a gritty, defensive battle from start to finish. The Mustangs led 26-22 at halftime before surviving a back-and-forth second half to secure the three-point victory.

Tournament MVP: Tariq Jennings

Sophomore standout Tariq Jennings earned Tournament MVP honors after posting 13 points and 8 rebounds, including a clutch 6-of-7 performance from the free-throw line. Jennings controlled the glass and anchored the defensive effort in the closing minutes.

Key Performances

• Qudire Bennett: 13 points, 6 rebounds, 2 steals

• Tariq Jennings: 13 points, 8 rebounds, Tournament MVP

• Issac Cole: 10 points, 9 rebounds

• Steven Hill (off the bench): 9 points, 5 rebounds

Montco dominated the glass, outrebounding Salem 50-36, including 19 offensive rebounds that created critical second-chance opportunities.

Despite shooting 35.6% from the field, the Mustangs made timely plays, knocked down 13 free throws, and forced 16 Salem turnovers to seal the championship.

With the district title secured, Montgomery County Community College continues its historic season and now turns its focus toward the national stage.