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JCCC men’s basketball championship hopes kept alive with at-large bid

The image shows an energetic moment during a basketball game played on an indoor court. Several players wearing white uniforms with “Johnson County” printed on the front are at the center of the action. Two of these players are celebrating—one is slightly elevated off the ground as another teammate lifts an arm toward them in a gesture of triumph. Other teammates in white uniforms are nearby, some running or turning as the play transitions. Opposing players in dark blue uniforms are visible as well, positioned around the court as the game continues. In the background, a group of cheer team members wearing blue-and-gold outfits are holding bright gold pom?poms. Some of them have their arms raised, adding to the lively, competitive atmosphere. Large lettering is visible on the wall behind the scene, though only partial words can be made out due to framing and player placement. The court floor features the typical markings of a collegiate basketball arena. The overall mood captured is one of excitement and high energy, with players and spirit squad members in motion as the game unfolds.
Posted: Mar 10, 2026

OVERLAND PARK, Kan. – The Johnson County Community College men's basketball team has been given a second chance to compete for 2026 NJCAD Division II National Championships, receiving an at-large bid to complete the tournament field.

The No. 3-ranked and previously unbeaten Cavaliers (29-1) were upset by Fort Scott in the semifinals of the Region 6 Tournament last Friday. However, their body of work throughout the season was good enough for the selection committee to hand JCCC an at-large bid and the No. 6 seed in the tournament.

Johnson County head coach Rand Chappell said it means a great deal for his team to have this opportunity.

"Our team is really excited to get this opportunity," said JCCC head coach Rand Chappell.  "They have put together an excellent year and are very deserving of a chance to play in the national tournament.  We will get to work on preparing for our first round game and look forward to a great week."

This the second consecutive season the Johnson County men's basketball program has received an at-large bid to the tournament.

Johnson County will face No. 11-seed Parkland College in the second round on Monday, March 16 at 8 p.m., at the Mary Miller Gymnasium on the campus of Danville Area Community College in Danville, Ill.

This is Johnson County's 11th trip to nationals and fifth in six years under coach Chappell. The Cavaliers won NJCAA Division II national titles in 2001and 2009 and were runner-up in 2019. Three years ago, Chapell led JCCC to a seventh-place finish at the national tournament.

2026 NJCAA D-II Bracket