RCTC Earns Strong Home Win Over Minnesota West, 60–49

The Rochester Community and Technical College Yellowjackets picked up a t home win on Saturday, defeating Minnesota West Community & Technical College 60–49. The victory improved RCTC's record to 11–15 overall and 2–8 in conference play, while Minnesota West dropped to 12–14 and 4–7.  This game was the second match-up this week as MN West downed the Jackets on Moday in Worthington.

The game started with good energy from RCTC. The Yellowjackets moved the ball well getting out to an 11-0 lead.  They never relinquished the lead throughout in securing the win. Their teamwork helped them build a lead in the first half, going into halftime ahead 29–21. Minnesota West struggled to score early, shooting only 31% from the field for the game, including just 22% from the three‑point line.

RCTC's balanced scoring played a big role in the win. Carson Brown led the team with 12 points, shooting an efficient 4-for-6 from the field and adding four rebounds and two assists. He was steady all game and gave RCTC a reliable option whenever they needed a basket.

Another major factor was the play of John Johnson. He recorded 9 points and 11 rebounds, including 10 defensive boards. Johnson's work around the rim helped RCTC control the glass. As a team, the Yellowjackets outrebounded Minnesota West 40–22, which helped them get more scoring chances and slow down Minnesota West's offense.

Several other Yellowjackets made key contributions. Sam Hemery scored 10 points and hit two three-pointers while also grabbing four rebounds and collecting two steals. Brandon Wilson came off the bench and added 11 points, giving RCTC a spark when they needed it. Aidan Flaten was also important off the bench, scoring eight points on 3-for-4 shooting, including two big threes.

On Minnesota West's side, Da'Shaundis Moore led all scorers with 14 points, hitting three shots from behind the arc. Calvin Flood added 10 points and four assists, while Keion Irvin scored nine off the bench. But overall, Minnesota West had trouble finding consistent scoring and struggled against RCTC's rebounding advantage.

In the second half, Minnesota West tried to make a comeback, cutting into the lead several times. But each time they got close, RCTC answered with strong defense or a big shot. The Jackets scored 31 points in the second half and never gave up the lead.

RCTC also shared the ball well, finishing with 15 assists compared to Minnesota West's 10. Their ability to move the ball and find the open player made their offense more effective and helped them maintain control.

The Jackets travel to Fergus Falls on Wednesday, before finishing the regular season at home next Saturday against Anoka-Ramsey.