The Monarchs look to rebound on the road against Wayne County CCD on Wednesday, February 8th at 7:30 pm.

MONARCHS AVENGE EARLY SEASON LOSS

The Macomb men’s basketball team moved into fourth place with a 6-4 record in the MCCAA Eastern Conference with a 74-56 victory over St. Clair County CC.  The Monarchs were led by Pat Ferrell, who had 18 points and 10 rebounds.

Macomb started the game fast, jumping out to at 13-2 in the first few minutes.  The Monarchs held the Skippers to 20% shooting for the first half, while holding a 36-18 lead at the break.  The Skippers got to within 10 points in the second half, but a three-pointer by John Irons sparked an 8-0 run to push the lead back to 18 points.

Traye Williams had 13 points and six assists and Irons finished with 12 points for Macomb.  Ryan Bush had 11 points off of the bench for the Monarchs.  Johnnie Mills and Dennis Hogan each had 14 points to lead the Skippers.  Deion Stegall had 10 points for St. Clair.

The Monarchs travel to Dearborn on Saturday, Feb. 4th for a 3 pm game against Henry Ford CC.

MONARCHS LOSE TO RAIDERS

The Macomb men’s basketball team lost to Oakland CC 78-63 on Saturday afternoon.  The Monarchs fall to 5-4 in conference play and are tied for fourth place.  Macomb was led by Ashton Curd, who had 16 points.

Macomb held a 55-53 lead with 7:20 remaining in the game, but the Raiders went on a 15-1 run over the next five minutes to give them the lead.  The Raiders shot 51% from the floor, while holding Macomb to 36% for the game.  The Raiders also dominated on the glass, holding a 48-29 rebounding advantage. 

Ryan Bush scored 10 points off the bench, and was the only other Monarch in double-figures.  John Irons and Traye Williams each finished with nine points for Macomb.  The Raiders were led by Ugochukwu Njoku, who had 20 points and 14 rebounds.  Anthony Welch Jr. had 18 points and 10 rebounds for Oakland.

The Monarchs come home to play St. Clair CCC on Wednesday, February 1st at 7:30 pm at the Sports & Expo Center.

MONARCHS SHOOT WELL IN VICTORY

The Macomb men’s basketball team is now tied for third place in the MCCAA Eastern Conference with a 5-3 record, following an 82-65 victory over Alpena CC.  Pat Ferrell led the team with 24 points, seven rebounds, and four blocks.

The Monarchs shot 54% in the first half and 50% for the game.  Macomb held a 82-65 lead at the break, behind five three pointers from Kelvin Toma.  The Monarchs out-rebounded the Lumberjacks 51-35 for the game.

Toma finished the game with 21 points for Macomb.  Ashton Curd had 10 points and seven assists and Ryan Bush had 12 points for the Monarchs.  Alpena was led by Jamierson Green who had 17 points.  Lauren Jones finished with 11 points and Devon Elder had 10 off the bench for the Lumberjacks.

The Monarchs next game is on Saturday, January 28th at 3 pm against #16 Oakland CC.

MACOMB RALLIES FOR THE VICTORY

The Macomb men’s basketball team rallied from a 19 point second half deficit to defeat Schoolcraft 82-80 on Saturday evening at the Sports & Expo Center.  The Monarchs improved their conference record to 4-3 and a tie for fourth place.  Patrick Ferrell led Macomb with 18 points and seven rebounds, including a rebound and lay-up with five seconds remaining to give Macomb the lead.

Macomb, facing a 19 point deficit with less than 8 minutes remaining in the game, outscored Schoolcraft 27-6 in the remaining minutes.  The Monarchs trailed 40-33 at the half behind 33% shooting.  The Monarchs forced 23 Ocelot turnovers.

Ashton Curd finished the game with 17 points and eight assists for Macomb.  Traye Williams had 13 points and six rebounds and Kelvin Toma had 10 points off the bench.  Ryan Bush, in his first start of the season, had 11 points and six rebounds for Macomb.  Karl Moore and LenDerrick Witcher each had 21 points for Schoolcraft.  Daniel Hill chipped in with 11 for the Ocelots.

Macomb’s next game is against Alpena CC at 7:30 pm at the Sports & Expo Center on Wednesday, January 25th.

MACOMB GOES COLD IN LOSS

The Macomb men’s basketball team lost to Kirtland CC 58-40 on Wednesday evening in Mio.  The loss drops the Monarchs to 3-3 in conference play.  Macomb was led by Pat Ferrell, who finished with eight points and 10 rebounds.

Macomb did not shoot well the entire game, shooting, 27% in the first half and 28% for the game.  The Monarchs struggled from behind the arc, finishing the game 3-17 from three point range.  The Firebirds had a 10 point lead at the break, and extended it over the second half, behind 54% shooting for the half.

The Monarchs had no players finish in double-figures for the game.  John Irons led the team in scoring with nine points.  Keith Paris finished tied with Ferrell for the game-high in rebounds with 10.  Dwayne Thurmond and John Edwards each finished with 16 points for Kirtland.

Macomb’s next game is on Saturday, January 21st at 3 pm against Schoolcraft College.

MONARCHS DEFEAT DELTA 92-69

The Macomb men’s basketball team improved their conference record to 3-2 with a 92-69 victory over Delta College.  Ashton Curd led six Monarchs in double-figures, with 21 points, seven rebounds, and seven assists.

The Monarchs continued their hot shooting, finishing the game shooting over 54%.  Delta struggled from the field, shooting 34% for the game.  The Monarchs finished the game with 27 assists.

John Irons finished with 17 points for Macomb, while Keith Paris finished with 13 points and six assists.  Kelvin Toma had 11 points and Pat Ferrell and Ryan Bush each had 10 points for the Monarchs.  Delta was led by Jody Hill, who had 18 points.  James Arnold finished with 15 points for the Pioneers.

The Monarchs next play on Wednesday, January 18th at 7:30 pm at Kirtland CC in Roscommon.

MONARCHS LOSE HEART BREAKER

The Macomb men’s basketball team fell to 2-2 in conference play, following a 68-64 loss at #1 Mott CC on Wednesday night.  The Monarchs were led by Pat Ferrell, who had 23 points and 10 rebounds.

The Monarchs had the ball with 35 seconds to go with a tied game, but a Keith Paris jumper from the elbow did not fall.  John Taylor pushed the ball up the floor off of the miss, and passed to an open Walter Davis for the game winning lay-up with 1.7 seconds remaining.  The P.T. Shirar inbound pass was deflected into Shirar, ruining Macomb’s chances at the victory.

The Mott Bears scored the first 10 points of the game, but Macomb settled down and was only down by three points at the break.  Macomb shot well from the floor the entire night, shooting over 57% for the game.  Macomb struggled to hold onto the ball during the game, committing 23 turnovers.  The Macomb defense held Mott to 36% shooting for the game, but the Bears hit the glass hard getting 22 offensive rebounds.

Ashton Curd was the only other Monarch in double figures, with 15 points, while playing stellar defense holding Mott’s Taylor to 11 points on 4-25 shooting.  John Irons added eight points and Paris chipped in with nine rebounds for Macomb.  Mott was led by Davis, who finished with 15 points.  Jacomb Perry had 14 points, and Kory Billups finished with 10 points for the Bears.

The Monarchs return home on Sat. January 14 at 3 pm against Delta CC at the Sports & Expo Center.

STRONG SECOND HALF HELPS MACOMB 

The Macomb men’s basketball team cruised to a 93-53 victory over Wayne County CCD on Monday night at the Sports & Expo Center.  The Monarchs were led by Patrick Ferrell, who led all scorers with 23 points.

Macomb held a 42-32 lead at the break, before outscoring the Wildcats 51-31 in the second half.  The Monarchs shot 53% for the game, while holding Wayne County to 32%, and only 25% in the second half.  Macomb used their size advantage and out-rebounded the Wildcats 54-26 for the game.

Kelvin Toma finished the game with 17 points.  P.T. Shirar had 11 points and eight rebounds for the Monarchs.  Ashton Curd and John Irons each scored 10.  Keith Paris had a team high 12 rebounds for the Monarchs.  Tevin Fields led the Wildcats with 13 points.  Chris Hines, the brother of women’s basketball player Kristian Hines, finished with 12 points for Wayne County.

Macomb next plays at 7:30 pm against Mott CC in Flint on Wednesday, January 11th.

MACOMB PICKS UP FIRST CONFERENCE WIN

The Macomb men’s basketball team defeated Henry Ford CC 90-70 on Saturday afternoon at the Sports & Expo Center.  This is the team’s first conference victory of the season, putting them at 1-1 on the season.  Patrick Ferrell led Macomb with 28 points and 10 rebounds.

The Monarchs jumped out to a 48-30 halftime lead behind 57% shooting in the half.  Macomb continued the hot shooting in the second half, and shot 56% for the game.  The Hawks, on the other hand, shot poorly the entire game, shooting 32% for the game. 

Ashton Curd had another great game, finishing with 26 points, seven rebounds, and five assists.  Ryan Bush finished with a career-high 14 points and eight rebounds.  John Irons had 11 points in the game.  Henry Ford was led by Mike Davis, who has 15 points.  Tommie Carter and James Still each had 12 points for the Hawks.

The Monarchs next game is on Monday. January 9th at 7:30 pm against Wayne County CCD at the Sports & Expo Center.

ST. CLAIR NIPS MACOMB 

The Macomb men’s basketball team fell 65-61 to St. Clair CCC, in the team’s first MCCAA Eastern Conference game.  The Monarchs were led by Ashton Curd, who had 16 points and four assists.

The Monarchs held a 57-47 lead with just under six minutes to play, but was held to 4 points in the final minutes.  The Skippers shot 50% from the field in the second half after being held to 36% in the first half.  St. Clair also out-rebounded Macomb 40-34 for the contest.

Keith Paris was the only other Monarch in double-figures, finishing with 12 points and a team-high 10 rebounds.  John Irons had eight points for Macomb.  The Skippers were led by Latwann Wesley, who finished with a game-high 18 points. Jesse Schienke had 12 points and Dennis Hogan had 10 for St. Clair.

The Monarchs return home to play Henry Ford CC on Saturday, January 7th at 3 pm.

MONARCHS WIN BOTH IN ST. CLAIR CLASSIC

The Macomb men’s basketball team defeated Lansing CC and Rochester College this weekend at the St. Clair Classic.  The Monarchs were led by pat Ferrell who had 35 points and 17 rebounds over the two games this weekend.

On Friday, Macomb defeated the Lansing Stars 78-74.  The Monarchs were in a close game the entire way, hitting many clutch free throws in the final minutes to clinch the victory.  Ferrell led the team in scoring, with 23 points.  John Irons was the only other Monarch in double figures, finishing with 11 points. Keith Paris finished with nine rebounds.  Lansing was led by Cameron Sanchez, who finished with 16 points, eight assists, and seven rebounds.

On Saturday, the Monarchs beat Rochester College 86-69 in both teams second game of the classic.  The Monarchs started the game sluggish, shooting under 32% in the first half. Despite the poor shooting, Macomb was ahead by five at the break.  Irons led the team in scoring, with 21 points.  Traye Williams and Ferrell each scored 12 for Macomb.

Macomb’s next game is after the holidays, opening the conference slate on January 4th at St. Clair CCC at 7:30 pm.

MONARCHS SPLIT HOMESTAND

The Macomb men’s basketball team split two home games over the last week. The Monarchs defeated  Kalamazoo Valley CC 82-72 on Friday night and lost to Jackson CC 73-64 on Monday night.  Ashton Curd led Macomb against KVCC with 32 points and 11 rebounds.  During Monday’s defeat, four Monarchs scored 12 points.

Macomb started the game slow against Kalamazoo Valley, shooting 24% in the 1st half, leading to a 33-28 deficit at the half.  The Monarchs outscored the Cougars 54-39 in the second half after shooting 50%. Patrick Ferrell finished with 20 points and nine rebounds.  Traye Williams finished with 14 points.  Courtney Hill and Daequan Mitchell-Fields each finished with 15 points for Kalamazoo Valley.

On Monday evening, Jackson CC gave Macomb their second loss of the season.  Macomb struggled from the floor the entire night, shooting 39% overall and 21% on three-pointers for the game.  Jackson’s Jordan Union led all scorers with 19 points, while James Johnson finished with 11 points and 11 rebounds.  Curd, Ferrell, Williams, and Keith Paris were the four Monarchs with 12 points.

Macomb next plays in the St. Clair Classic, on the campus of St. Clair Country CC, on Friday, Dec. 9th at 5:30 pm against Lansing CC and on Saturday, Dec. 10th at 1 pm against Rochester College.

MONARCHS DEFEAT MID-MICHIGAN

The Macomb men’s basketball team improved to 6-1 on the season with an 84-77 victory over Mid-Michigan on Tuesday evening at the Sports & Expo Center.  Traye Williams led the Monarchs with 22 points, including 17 of the teams 32 first half points.

Macomb struggled from the floor in the first half, shooting 34%.  The Monarchs defense was good throughout the game, holding the Lakers to 32% shooting on the half and 40% for the game.

Ashton Curd and Keith Paris stepped up in the second half, combining for 31 points in the half.  Patrick Ferrell had another double-double, scoring 12 points and grabbing 15 rebounds.  The Lakers were led by Jake Blake who finished with 19 points and 13 rebounds.  Sheldon Lowman had 16 points and five assists for Mid-Michigan.

The Monarchs next game is on Friday, December 2nd at 7 pm against Kalamazoo Valley CC at the Sports & Expo Center.

MONARCHS WIN NAIL BITER

Ashton Curd’s free throw with 4.3 seconds remaining was the difference in Macomb’s 62-61 victory over Glen Oaks.  The Monarchs improve to 5-1 on the season with the victory.  Patrick Ferrell led Macomb with 14 points and 12 rebounds.

Macomb started the game strong, leading the Vikings 31-22 at the half.  Glen Oaks shot well in the second half, getting back into the game, by shooting over 55% for the half. 

John Irons was the only other Monarch in double figures with 13 points.  PT Shirar had a season high 11 rebounds.  Glen Oak’s Karvel Anderson led all scorers with 24 points, including four three-pointers.

Macomb’s next game is on Tues. Nov. 29th at 7:30 pm against Mid-Michigan CC at the Sports & Expo Center.

MONARCHS IMPROVE TO 3-0

The Macomb men’s basketball team hosted the Rochester College Warriors on Tuesday evening at the Sports & Expo Center.  Led by Kelvin Toma’s 17 points, the Monarchs cruised to a 98-65 victory.

Macomb started the game hot, jumping to a 30 point lead after the first 20 minutes.  The Monarchs shot 47% on the half, while holding the Warriors to 29%.  Behind Toma, there were three other Monarchs in double figures, including Keith Paris (13), Ryan Bush (10), and Patrick Ferrell (10).  The Warriors were paced by 21 points by Matt Mullins, while Marvin Stokes chipped in with 13 points and 10 assists.

The Monarchs travel to Columbus, OH for a tournament at Columbus St. CC this weekend, with games on November 18th and 19th.

FERRELL LEADS MONARCHS

The Macomb men’s basketball team defeated Concordia 100-89 on Saturday afternoon in Ann Arbor.  The Monarchs were led by Pat Ferrell, who had 38 points, 10 rebounds, and four blocks.

Macomb started the game hot shooting 56% in the first half while building a 13 point lead.  Ferrell had 22 points and six rebounds at the break.  The Cardinals got as close as 2 points in the second half, with 12:40 remaining, but could never get over the hump.

Keith Paris had his second double-double of the season, with 15 points and 10 rebounds, while also leading the team with seven assists.  Traye Williams and Ryan Bush each scored 10 points for the Monarchs.  Concordia was led by Josh Fugate, who scored 24 points, and Zac Richardson, who had 19 points.

Macomb’s next game is on Tuesday, Nov. 15 at 7 pm against Rochester College at the Sports & Expo Center.

MONARCHS VICTORIOUS IN HOME OPENER

The Macomb men’s basketball team beat Marygrove College 80-58 on Tuesday night at the Sports & Expo Center.  Keith Paris led the Monarchs with 12 points and 10 rebounds.

Macomb struggled throughout the first half, shooting 30%, but was still leading 33-30 at the break.  Macomb used an 18-4 run in the first half to go from a 10-3 deficit, to a 21-14 lead. 

The Monarchs opened the second half fast starting with a 15-4 run, to make the three points lead a 14 point lead.  Macomb shot over 57% in the second half, while holding the Mustangs to 32% shooting in the second half and under 32% for the game.

Patrick Ferrell was the leading scorer for Macomb with 14 points, tying Marygrove’s Kevin Dunaj and Shaun Covington for the game high.  P.T. Shirar chipped in with 11 points and seven rebounds for the Monarchs.  John Irons and Ryan Bush also finished in double figures with 10 points each.

Macomb next plays on Saturday, November 12th at 1pm against Concordia College in Ann Arbor.

MACOMB SIGNS THREE MORE

Macomb Community College Men’s Basketball Coach James Twigg has signed three players to Letters of Intent for the Fall 2011-2012.

Shane Ellis – Henry Ford II H.S.
Jaymes Rogan – L’Anse Creuse North H.S.
Traye Williams – Roseville H.S.

Rogan, a 2005 graduate of L’Anse Creuse North High School, played basketball under Coach Jay Seletsky.  He received All-State, All-County, All-Conference, and All-League honors.  He was also named MAC White and team MVP.  His senior season, he averaged 14.5 points, 13.5 rebounds, and six assists per game.  He is undecided on a major.

Ellis played varsity basketball at Ford II High School under Coach Mike Bray.  He received All-League honors, while also be invited to play in the Macomb County All-Star Game.  His senior year, Ellis averaged more than 17 points and 13 rebounds per game.  He is currently undecided on a major.

Williams played varsity basketball at Roseville High School under Coach Robbie Lang.  He received All-County, All-Conference, All-League, and Team MVP honors.  This season Williams averaged more than 19 points and three assists a game.  His father, Karl, played basketball at Macomb from 1989-1991, and is currently an assistant coach with the team. 

CURD A MONARCH

Macomb Community College Men’s Basketball Coach James Twigg has signed another player to a Letter of Intent for the Fall 2011-2012.

Ashton Curd – Madison H.S.

Curd played varsity basketball at Madison High School under Coach Steve Rhoades.  He was a 2010 graduate, but while in high school, he received All-League and All-County honors.  His senior year, Curd averaged more than 20 points, while gathering six rebounds and five assists per game.

MONARCHS INK THREE

Macomb Community College Men’s Basketball Coach James Twigg has signed three more players to a Letters of Intent for the Fall 2011-2012.

Ryan Bush – Berkley H.S.
Kelvin Toma – Lamphere H.S.
Emanuel Garland – Consortium H.S.

Bush played varsity basketball at Berkley High School under Coach David McGlown.  This past season, Bush averaged more than 25 points and seven rebounds.  He received All-Conference, All-League, and Team MVP honors.  He plans on majoring in Physical Therapy. 
Click here to read more about Ryan.

Toma played varsity basketball at Lamphere High School under Coach Joe Jolet.  This past season, Toma played at University of Michigan-Flint.  He received All-Conference and All-League honors during his senior season.

Garland played varsity basketball at Consortium High School under Coach Al Anderson.  This past season, Garland averaged more than 15 points and seven rebounds per game.  He was apart of a State Semi-Final team his senior season. 

MONARCHS SIGN TWO MORE

Men’s Basketball Coach James Twigg has signed two more players to Letter of Intent for the Fall 2011-2012.

Craig Smelley – L’Anse Creuse North H.S.
Mason Cowans – Osborn H.S.

Craig (pictured right) has played varsity basketball at L’Anse Creuse North High School under Coach Jay Seletsky.  This past season, Smelley received MAC Red All- League and All-Detroit Metro East honors.

Mason has played varsity basketball at Detroit Osborn High School.  This past season, Cowans averaged 15 points, five rebounds, and over six assists.  He was named honorable mention All-PSL.

Click here to view highlights of Mason Cowans.

MONARCHS SIGN FIRST RECRUIT

Macomb Community College Men’s Basketball Coach James Twigg has signed his first player to a Letter of Intent for the Fall 2011-2012.

Brandon Gouch – Roseville H.S.

Brandon has played varsity basketball for four years at Roseville High School, graduating in 2010.  Gouch played one year at Northwood University, before signing with the Monarchs.

MONARCHS RECEIVE POSTSEASON HONORS

Alan Hardy, who led the Eastern Conference in scoring with a 20.0 points per game average, received Second Team All-Eastern Conference honors.

Keith Drain was named to All-Eastern Conference All-Freshman team as well as Honorable Mention All-Eastern Conference.

MACOMB ENDS SEASON WITH PAINFUL LOSS

Macomb Community College men’s basketball team ended their season with an 80-73 loss to the Oakland Raiders on Wednesday Night at the Sports & Expo Center.  Alan Hardy, in his last game as a Monarch, led all scorers with 32 points.

The Monarchs led 33-30 at halftime, behind strong team defense holding Oakland to 26% shooting from the field.  Oakland started the second half on a 23-9 run throughout the first eight minutes of the half.  Macomb cut the Oakland lead to six a few times late in the second half, but could not capitalize on opportunities.

Terrell Williams finished with 11 points for Macomb, while PT Shirar had nine points and 10 rebounds.  Keith Drain led the Monarchs with seven assists, while chipping in six points and six rebounds despite being limited with an ankle injury.  Daniel McClendon and Antonio Credit led Oakland with 16 points each.  Sterling Jefferson finished with 15 points, while Zach Kaul had 11 points for the Raiders.

MACOMB FAILS TO HOLD HALFTIME LEAD

The Macomb Community College men’s basketball team fell 77-69 to Schoolcraft on Saturday evening.  Keith Drain led the Monarchs with 19 points, 10 rebounds, seven assists, and four steals. 

Macomb held a two-point halftime lead, holding the Ocelots to 38% shooting and 10% from three-point range.  The Monarchs were leading by as many as eight points in the second half and held a one-point lead with four minutes remaining.  Over the last four minutes, Schoolcraft outscored Macomb 19-10.  Schoolcraft shot 52% in the second half.

Alan Hardy had 16 points for Macomb.  P.T. Shirar chipped in 12 points for the Monarchs.  For Schoolcraft, Karl Moore led all scorers with 20 points and 10 rebounds.  Lydell Mason scored 15 points, while Anthony Nash and Daniel Hill each scored 14.

Macomb’s next game is Sophomore Night, on Wednesday, Feb. 23rd  at 7:30 pm against Oakland CC at the Sports & Expo Center.    

MACOMB GOES COLD LATE AGAINST KIRTLAND

Macomb Community College men’s basketball team lost 63-53 to Kirtland on Wednesday night at the Sports & Expo Center.  Terrell Williams led all scorers with a season-high 17 points.

Macomb struggled from the field scoring only five points over the last 5:30 of game time.  The game shifted with a 9-0 run by Kirtland, seven of which from John Edwards, over a 1:45 stretch in the second half, to put the Firebirds up seven with 7:55 remaining.  The Monarchs cut the lead to three multiple times, but could not get over the hump.

Alan Hardy was second on Macomb with 14 points and nine rebounds.  Keith Drain added 13 points, while leading the Monarchs with 12 rebounds and five assists.  Kirtland was led by 16 points from Stavros Schizas.  Edwards was second on the Firebirds with 15 points.

Macombs next plays on Saturday, Feb. 19th at 3 pm at Schoolcraft CC in Livonia.

FIRST HALF STRUGGLES DOOM MACOMB 

Macomb Community College men’s basketball team fell 85-71 to Delta on Saturday evening at Pioneer Gym in Saginaw.  Alan Hardy led the Monarchs in scoring with 16 points and adding six rebounds.

Delta started the game hot from behind the arc, making eight first half three-pointers.  Macomb battled back in the second half, cutting a 21 point halftime deficit to 13, five minutes into the half.  The Monarchs could not get any closer throughout the game, despite shooting 47% for the half.

Keith Drain led Macomb in rebounding with 12 and assists with six, while being second in scoring with 13 points.  Joe Jones had a season high for Macomb with 11 points.  Delta was led by Brad Norman who led the Pioneers with 21 points and 11 rebounds.  The Pioneers had three other players in double digits, Jemond Patrick (14), Winthrop Thomas (13), and A.J. Thomas (12).

Macomb hosts Kirtland CC on Wednesday, Feb. 16th at 7:30 pm at the Sports & Expo Center.

MONARCHS OUTSHOT BY MOTT

Macomb Community College men’s basketball team fell 76-49 to visiting Mott CC on Wednesday night at the Sports and Expo Center.  Alan Hardy led the Monarchs with 13 points while chipping in with eight rebounds. 

The Monarchs stayed in the game in the first half, down by only 12 despite shooting 28%.  Macomb cut the lead to as little as 10 in the second half, but could not get the Mott lead under double digits.  Mott’s offensive power showed up throughout out the second half behind 57% shooting. 

Terrell Williams and Keith Drain each scored eight points for Macomb.  P.T. Shirar led the Monarchs with nine rebounds.  Mott was led by Mike Brigham, who finished with 24 points and 12 rebounds, both game highs.  Marshawn Norris chipped in with 15 points, while Sam Burton and Demetrius Miller each ended with 11 points.

The Monarchs next plays at Delta CC in Saginaw on Saturday, Feb. 12th at 3 pm.

MACOMB FALTERS AGAINST HENRY FORD

Macomb Community College men’s basketball team fell to Henry Ford Community College 72-52 on Thursday night.  Alan Hardy led all scorers with 19 points.

The Monarchs struggled from the floor the entire night, shooting 28% from the floor and 17% from behind the arc for the game.  Henry Ford jumped out to a 19-3 lead to start the game, but Macomb battled to score the next 13 points to cut the lead to three halfway through the first half.  Henry Ford rallied to secure a 17 point halftime lead, and controlled the game through the second half.

Keith Drain led the Monarchs with 18 rebounds, while also scoring 10 points.  P.T. Shirar chipped in 11 points for Macomb.  Henry Ford was led by Christian Moon who scored 17 points.  Lavertis Hawkins scored 11 points for the Hawks.

Macomb’s next game is on Wednesday, Feb. 9th at 7:30 pm against Mott CC at the Sports & Expo Center.      

MONARCHS STRUGGLES CONTINUE AGAINST SKIPPERS

Macomb Community College men’s basketball team fell to St. Clair County 85-63 on Saturday afternoon at the Sports & Expo Center.  Keith Drain led the Monarchs with 16 points, nine rebounds, and seven assists.

Macomb struggled from the floor early, starting the game missing 14 of their first 15 attempts and shooting under 21% for the half on their way to trailing 36-16 at the break.  Macomb shot much better in the second half scoring 47 points, but could not overcome the first half deficit.

P.T. Shirar was the only other Monarch in double digits, scoring 12 points.  Alan Hardy added seven points and eight rebounds.  Jesse Schienke led all scorers with 18 points for St. Clair.  James Bethea added 15 points and Brandon Thompson scored 13 for the Skippers.

Macomb next plays on Wednesday, Feb. 2nd at 7:30 pm at Henry Ford CC.

MONARCHS RALLY FALLS SHORT

Macomb Community College men’s basketball team fell 81-72 to Schoolcraft College on Wednesday night at the Sports & Expo Center.  Alan Hardy led all players with 19 points and was tied for the team lead with six rebounds.

Macomb rallied from a 19 point second half deficit to cut the Ocelots lead to six late in the game, but some clutch free throws sealed the victory for Schoolcraft.  The Monarchs struggled from the floor, shooting 3-19 from long distance for the game.

Keith Drain was second on Macomb with 14 points, while tying Hardy with six boards.  Terrell Williams scored 11, while adding five assists for the Monarchs.  Anthony Nash led the Ocelots with 17 points.  Lydell Mason and Karl Moore each scored 16, while Ron Pummill chipped in with 14 points for Schoolcraft.

Macomb next plays on Wednesday, Jan. 26 at Oakland CC.

COLD SHOOTING HURTS MACOMB

Macomb Community College men’s basketball team fell 69-58 to Kirtland Community College on Saturday at the McGregor Athletic Complex.  Alan Hardy led all scorers with 21 points, while adding six rebounds.

The Monarchs shot poorly from the floor, shooting 36% for the game.  Kirtland on the other hand, came out hot in the first half, shooting almost 52%, while leading 37-24 at the half. Macomb battled in the second half, but could not closer than 11 throughout the half.

Terrell Williams added 13 points for the Monarchs, while Keith Drain added 10 points and nine rebounds, including an amazing dunk while being fouled late in the game.  Dmitry Martynenko led the Firebirds with 20 points and 12 rebounds.  John Edwards added 13 points and five assists, while Stavros Schizas and Rashad Harrison each scored 12 points.

Macomb hosts Schoolcraft CC on Wednesday, Jan. 19th at 7:30 pm at the Sports and Expo Center.

HARDY LEADS MACOMB TO VICTORY

Macomb Community College men’s basketball team broke a four-game losing streak with a dramatic 56-53 victory over Delta on Wednesday night at the Sports and Expo Center.  Alan Hardy led all scorers with 21 points.

Macomb’s decision not to foul down by one point, in the last 36 seconds paid off as Hardy stole a pass and drove for the winning lay-up with 24 seconds remaining.  The Monarchs stifling defense on the Pioneers final possession led to a missed shot by Kwincy Tucker.  Terrell Williams sealed the victory for Macomb, with a lay-up as time expired, on a terrific home-run pass by Mitch Michalski.

Joe Jones, who started for the first time this year, recorded a double-digit effort with 11 points.  Guard Keith Drain led Macomb with nine rebounds.  Winston Thomas led the Pioneers with 12 points and 17 rebounds.  Tucker also had 12 points for Delta.

Macomb next plays this Saturday, Jan. 15 at 3 pm at Kirtland CC.

MACOMB STRUGGLES IN LOSS

Macomb Community College men’s basketball team falls to 6-12 (1-4) on the season with an 83-48 loss to Mott Community College on Saturday in Flint.  Alan Hardy led all scorers with 18 points, 12 of which came from the free throw line.

Macomb’s cold shooting (29%) in the first half led to a 37-20 halftime deficit.  Mott increased the margin in the second half behind some very hot shooting, 64% from the floor, 75% from behind the arc.

Terrell Williams was second on the Monarchs in scoring with nine points, while Keith Drain led the team with seven rebounds.  Mike Brigham led the Bears with 17 points and eight rebounds.  Doug Anderson had 15 points and Demetrius Miller had 14 points for Mott.

Macomb’s next game on Wednesday, Jan. 12 at 7:30 pm at the Sports and Expo Center against Delta C.C.

MACOMB FALLS TO HENRY FORD 84-75

The Macomb Community College men’s basketball team lost 84-75 to visiting Henry Ford Community College on Monday night at the Sports and Expo Center.  Alan Hardy had another impressive performance for the Monarchs, leading all players with 32 points, while adding eight rebounds.

Henry Ford started the game strong shooting over 51 percent in the first half, paving the way to a 48-37 lead at halftime.  Macomb battled back in the second half and was within striking distance cutting the Hawks lead to three with 5:16 remaining in the game, but Henry Ford scored 10 of the next 11 points to put the game out of reach.

Alan Ciochetto was second on the Monarchs with eight points, while Hamza Ali-Ahmed led the team with 10 rebounds.  Terrance Tubbs led the Hawks with 20 points and nine rebounds.  Henry Ford had three other players in double figures: Christian Moon (15), Lavertis Hawkins (12), and Jamie Stewart (10).

The Monarchs will next take on Mott Community College at 3 p.m. on Saturday, Jan. 8 in Flint.

MONARCHS BEAT COLUMBUS STATE

Mitch Michalski’s free throw with four seconds remaining sealed a dramatic 66-62 victory over Columbus State Community College Sunday evening at the Sports and Expo Center. Alan Hardy led the way for the Monarchs (5-8) with 23 points while adding five rebounds.

Macomb led at the half 27-25 while holding Columbus State to 26 percent shooting from the floor. Columbus State led by Glenn Cosey, 17 points, came out strong in the second half and looked to be in control holding a nine point lead with 8:20 to go in the game. Alan Ciochetto’s basket with 4:00 remaining gave the Monarchs a 57-56 lead they would not relinquish.

Terrell Williams added 12 points for Macomb, while Hamza Ali-Ahmed led the Monarchs with eight rebounds. Anthony Webster had 12 points and 11 rebounds for the Cougars.

Macomb hits the road, opening the conference season with a pair of games at Alpena Community College on Dec. 21 and Dec. 22.

MONARCHS DROP 65-57 DECISION TO MID-MICHIGAN 

Alan Hardy led all players on the floor with 22 points and Terrell Williams added 16 points to go along with two steals, but it wasn’t enough to get past Mid-Michigan as the Macomb Community College men’s basketball team (3-4) fell 65-57 to the visiting Lakers Tuesday evening at the Sports and Expo Center.

After trailing by as many as 10 points in the first half, a pair of Jarvis Dennis free throws at the half’s tail end put Macomb in comeback position, as they cut the lead to an eight point deficit, 33-25.

The Monarchs battled in the second half and a quick six-point run allowed them to slash the Mid-Michigan lead to three points, 42-39, with 13:43 to play. However, some consecutive 3-pointers by Kyle Gross contributed to a scoring barrage that put the Lakers back up by 13. A coast-to-coast layup by Hardy with just over six minutes to go cut the deficit to five, 56-51, but that would be as close as the Monarchs would get, as Mid-Michigan was able to hold Macomb off for the 65-57 victory.

P.T. Shirar and Eric Van Buren contributed eight rebounds apiece, while the Lakers had three players in double digits: Darnell Brown (13), Jake Blake (11) and Gross (11).

The Monarchs will next hit the road to compete in the St. Clair Tournament on Friday and Saturday, Dec. 3-4 in Port Huron.

MONARCHS DROP 84-82 HEARTBREAKER TO ROCHESTER COLLEGE

Alan Hardy led all players on the floor with 29 points and Eric Van Buren posted 22 points and seven rebounds off the bench, but it wasn’t enough to put the Monarchs on top as the Macomb Community College men’s basketball team (3-2) fell victim to costly turnovers in an 84-82 loss to Rochester College Friday evening at the Sports and Expo Center.

Macomb carried a 45-40 lead going into halftime, but the Warriors battled through three second half ties to carry a 12 point lead with just over six minutes to play. But the Monarchs took advantage of some quick turnovers and went on an eight point run to slash the deficit to four points with 4:18 to go.

Action then see-sawed to an 80-80 tie with 1:10 on the clock, then Hardy laid the ball in to take an 82-80 lead. But Rochester College’s Marcel Kern sank a 3-pointer with 23 seconds to go up 83-82. A costly turnover and foul put the Warriors on the free throw line and they sank the back end of a double bonus to go up 84-82 with eight seconds to play. A last ditch 3-pointer by Macomb rattled off the rim to give the game its 84-82 final score.

P.T. Shirar came just shy of a double-double with nine points and game-high 10 rebounds, while Terrell Williams dished out a team-best six assists. Rochester College had three players in double digits with Marvin Stokes (17), Kern (15) and Dominique Love (10).

The Monarchs look to rebound when they take on Glen Oaks Community College on Wednesday, Nov. 24 at the Sports and Expo Center. Tip is scheduled for 5 pm.

MONARCHS DEFEAT CONCORDIA IN 59-57 THRILLER

Alan Hardy paved the way with 15 points and six rebounds, while P.T. Shirar posted 14 points and seven rebounds to lead the Macomb Community College men’s basketball team (2-1) past Concordia University in a tight 59-57 decision Wednesday evening at the Sports and Expo Center.

The first half got off to a slow start with Macomb holding a slight 22-21 advantage after the first 20 minutes. However, a seesaw second half ignited both teams and it would be a jumper from the top of the key by Shirar with just seconds to go that would seal victory for Macomb by breaking the 57-57 tie.

Eric Van Buren contributed eight points, while Terrell Williams dished out five assists and swiped away three steals. Mitch Michalski posted six points and four assists off the bench. For the Cardinals, Andrew Patrick led all players with 17 points.

Macomb outshot Concordia 47 percent to 33 percent from the floor and held a 39-35 advantage in rebounds, including a 29-22 edge on the defensive glass.

The Monarchs will return to action on Wednesday, Nov. 17 when they will travel to Olivet College for a 7 p.m. tip.

MONARCHS FALL 74-57 TO KVCC

Sophomore Alan Hardy led the Monarchs with 17 points and freshman Eric Van Buren posted a double-double with 10 points and 11 rebounds, but it wasn’t enough to hold off a second half scoring surge by Kalamazoo Valley Community College (1-0) as the Macomb Community College men’s basketball team (1-1) dropped a 74-57 decision to the Cougars Saturday afternoon in Kalamazoo.

The Monarchs held a 32-31 lead at the half, but a 15-4 scoring run by KVCC in the game’s final 9:10 broke the game open for the 74-57 final score. Terrell Williams was the other Monarch in double figures for the night, contributing 12 points.

The Cougars had four players in double figures with Garner Small leading the way with 17 points, followed by Mike Betcher (16), Jairen Hunt (13), and Ken Gordon (12).

Macomb will next host Concordia on Wednesday, Nov. 10. Tip is scheduled for 7:30 pm.

MACOMB ROUTS MARYGROVE 77-55 ON OPENING NIGHT

Sophomore Alan Hardy posted 16 points and dished out four assists while freshman Joe Jones notched 12 points off four 3-pointers, leading the Macomb College men’s basketball team (1-0) past Marygrove College (0-1) 77-55 Tuesday evening at the Sports and Expo Center.

The Monarchs remained in control of the game from the get-go, with sophomore Jarvis Dennis and freshman P.T. Shirar also contributing double-digit efforts with 11 points apiece. Freshman Eric Van Buren pulled down a team-high six rebounds and posted nine points.

For the Mustangs, Jamier Mix tallied a team-best 14 points, while Darryl Dixon added 13 of his own.

Macomb will next travel to the west side of the state when they take on Kalamazoo Valley on Saturday, Nov. 6. Tip is scheduled for 3 p.m.

Schedule Released

The 2010-11 Men’s Basketball Schedule was released this week.  The Mighty Monarchs will open the season on November 2nd at home against Marygrove College.  Macomb’s first true test should be against the elite guard play of Glen Oaks CC.  The Monarchs will open conference play in a holiday hoops back-to-back against Alpena on December 21st-22nd.  Please click the schedule link, to view the complete schedule.    

Three Recruits

Coach Jim Twigg has signed three incoming freshman to help bolster the Macomb basketball team.   Coach Twigg has signed a 6’6 center from Utica Ford Alan Ciochetto.  Ciochetto earned All-MAC Red Honorable Mention honors.  The second signing was a 6’2 guard from Detroit Finney, Keith Paris.  Paris averaged 25 points and 10 assist for his AAU team.  Rounding out the signings is Melvin Ballestero, a 6’3 small forward from East Detroit.  Ballestero earned honorable mention honors at East Detroit.  Each of these young athletes should help shoulder the load with the five returning sophomores.

VanBuren Signed

New Head Coach Jim Twigg signed his first recruit, a 6’3 small forward from Warren Cousino, Eric VanBuren.  VanBuren is an active player that slashes to the basket.  He runs the court very well and is energetic on the boards.  VanBuren’s ability to grab rebounds and score will provide much needed help for Macomb this season.  He was first team All-Conference, second team All-Country, and was Cousino’s Team MVP.  VanBuren also led Cousino to a MAC White Division Championship and registered 20 points and 16 rebounds in Macomb County All-Star game.  

A New Age Begins

In the last 33 years the Macomb Basketball program has had two men guide the helm, John Switchulis (16 yrs.) & Henry Washington (17 yrs.).  After the recent retirement of Coach Washington a new chapter in the history books of Macomb Basketball is being forged.  The new era began on Tuesday, July 6, 2010. Macomb announced the hiring of James Twigg as the new Head Men’s Basketball Coach.  Twigg comes to Macomb with twenty years of coaching experience.  Twigg’s most recent coaching stint was with Grosse Pointe South High School as their Varsity Boys Head Basketball Coach from May of 2007-July 2010.  Jim began his career as the Head Varsity Girls Basketball Coach in 1990 at Clawson High School.  From there he has made stops at L’Anse Creuse North, Avondale and Sterling Heights High Schools as the Head Varsity Boys Basketball Coach.  He also was an assistant basketball coach at St. Mary’s College and Grosse Pointe South.  To say the least, Coach Twigg is very familiar with Macomb County.