Men's Basketball Tops Tabor for Second Win

CRETE, Neb. – The Doane men's basketball team stayed unbeaten to start the 2025–26 season, fending off Tabor College 75–70 on Monday night inside the Haddix Center. Behind balanced scoring and a strong finish in the second half, the Tigers moved to 2–0 overall.

Jack Wilson powered Doane with 24 points, five rebounds, and three steals on 9-of-15 shooting. Trevon Beckman added 20 points, including three triples, to go with three assists and two steals. The Tigers also got key efforts from Justus Gardiner with nine points and five rebounds, while Casen Chaney chipped in nine points and six boards.

The first half was a back-and-forth affair, featuring three ties and multiple lead changes as both teams worked through early-season rust. Doane trailed by as many as six before a late push helped the Tigers grab a 33–29 advantage at halftime. Beckman's deep three and Wilson's inside presence fueled the run, setting the tone for a tight second half.

Tabor's Niieihii Blackbear was nearly unstoppable, posting a double-double with 23 points and 15 rebounds before fouling out late. The Bluejays clawed back in the second half, briefly taking the lead midway through the period, but Doane responded with defensive stops and timely free throws to regain control.

Doane's defense held Tabor to 40.6% shooting from the field and 28% from three-point range while forcing 18 turnovers. The Tigers shot 43.6% themselves and hit 21-of-28 from the free-throw line, converting at a 75% clip — a key factor in closing out the game.

Jonan Claussen anchored the glass with eight rebounds and added seven points and two assists. Gardiner and Chaney combined for 10 rebounds and eight free throws drawn, helping the Tigers control the paint and the pace late.

Tabor was led by Blackbear's 23 points and 15 boards, along with Marque Wilkerson's 12 points and six assists. Jake Weaver added 12 rebounds and eight points, but the Bluejays couldn't overcome Doane's second-half surge.

With the win, Doane improves to 2–0 heading into the final week of October. The Tigers will stay home for their next contest, continuing non-conference play before the start of GPAC competition. Tipoff for Thursday's matchup against McPherson is scheduled for 7 p.m. at the Haddix Center.

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