Coming off a win over Wilbur Wright, the Joliet Junior College men's basketball team delivered another strong performance, defeating Harper College, 106-79, on Sophomore Night.
The game was competitive throughout much of the first half, but JJC's sophomores sparked a decisive run that gave the Wolves a 15-point lead heading into halftime.
Jyaveion Green and
Jeffrey Fleming led the early charge. Green caught fire from beyond the arc, shooting 3-of-5 from three-point range and scoring 12 points in the first half. Fleming added 10 first-half points to help JJC build momentum.
The Wolves continued to control the game in the second half, pulling away to secure the victory.
JJC was led by
Levi Goad with 22 points,
Jyaveion Green with 18 and
Jeffrey Fleming with 16.
Victor Yatou contributed seven points and seven rebounds in the win.
After the game, the sophomores reflected on their growth during their time at JJC.
Yatou said, "I feel like we've grown as a family. We push each other every day to get better on and off the court, and these are my brothers for life."
Goad spoke about the bonds built within the program.
"My relationships with all my teammates are lifelong friendships and learning how to come into work every day and work hard to be great."
Fleming shared that one of his biggest takeaways was, "growing up and becoming more mature as a basketball player and as a person."
Josh Dillon emphasized the brotherhood of the team.
"The family aspect. I was close with teammates in high school, but nothing like this. These are my brothers for life, and I'd do anything for them."
Green added, "One thing I'll take away is what coach Turner told us, whatever you do, just give your all, and the family aspect. These are my brothers."
Layshawn Scott echoed that sentiment, pointing to "the lessons coach Turner taught us and growing us into young adults."
Looking ahead to the postseason, Yatou emphasized the team mindset.
"We all realize this isn't an individual game, it's a team sport," he said. "Our chemistry has gotten so strong, and I believe that chemistry, toughness, and will to win will push us to nationals."
Head coach
Danny Turner was emotional speaking about his sophomore class.
"Just an unbelievable group of men," said Turner. "There's not going to ever be another group like them. They've grown so much from being freshmen to now young adults, and I can't say how much they will be missed. They will forever be family."
JJC will now travel to Ohio as they await the winner between Owens Community College and Lorain County in postseason play.
