17 Jan 2024 Nighthawks rank first in NJCAA poll

HOT SPRINGS — The National Park College (NPC) Nighthawk men’s basketball team ascended to the top of the National Junior College Athletic Association (NJCAA) Division 2 rankings this week, placing first in Monday’s poll. 

Amid its program-best 15-0 start to the season, NPC remains the only undefeated team in NJCAA Division 2 and currently ranks in the top 10, nationally, in points per game, field goals made per game, assists, steals and blocks. Since the beginning of the season, the Nighthawks have held national rankings of 20th, 11th, 7th, 5th and 3rd before climbing two spots this week.

Sophomore forward Nakavieon White (Odessa, Texas) leads the Nighthawks in scoring with 18.4 points per game while also serving as the team’s leader in rebounds, assists and blocks. Individually, White ranks in the top 10, nationally, in assists and defensive rebounds.

“Great team victories have led to finally being rewarded with the number one spot,” NPC Athletic Director Rich Thompson said. “The ability for these young men to come back to campus and not skip a beat is a reflection of their dedication to this program and their teammates. We look forward to retaining this ranking for the rest of the year and finishing the season with the trophy coming to NPC and Hot Springs.”  

Nighthawk men’s basketball continues NJCAA Region 2 play at Arkansas State University-Newport Thursday, Jan. 18 at 6:30 p.m. NPC returns home against Shorter College Thursday, Jan. 25 at 6:30 p.m.