Falcons Secure Opening Round Win Over Marion University, Advance to Round of 32 

WILLIAMSBURG, Ky. - The Florida College Falcons won the first round of the NAIA National Tournament for the third year in a row after defeating Marion University 84-71. 

Senior Cameron Selders put Florida College on the board first, followed by a layup by Tyshon Judge to start the game 4-0. The Falcons went on a 12-3 run that lasted until the 13:33 minute mark and held off the Knights for the next six minutes until they came back to take the lead 21-20 with seven minutes left in the first half.  

Junior Drew Kramer made a three-pointer to take the lead 39-37 with thirty seconds to spare, and Marion's Dylan Moles sank a pair of free throws to even the score 39-39. Marion led the game by as much as six points in the first half and was unable to take the lead by more than three the rest of the game. 

The teams were neck and neck until the 12-minute mark in the second half, and the Falcons pulled away to secure their 28th win of the season. Selders led the Falcons with a phenomenal performance, scoring 21 points, grabbing 12 rebounds, and pitching in five assists. Deonte' Martinez added 13 points, followed by Judge and Kramer with 12 apiece and Bryan Bayonne with 10.  

The Falcons only missed one free throw as a unit, posting a stellar 93.8 free throw percentage. They also scored 54 points in the paint compared to the Knights' 18.  

This game was significant not only for the program, but for head coach Chase Teichmann, as it marked Teichmann's 100th career win in four seasons. He flaunts a 100-26 overall record in his time as head coach. 

"I'm so happy for our team. This is an incredible accomplishment, and our guys deserve it. They locked into the game plan and executed tremendously. I'm proud to be their coach," said Teichmann.  

The Falcons will take on tournament host University of the Cumberlands on Saturday, March 16 at 6pm EST. Go Falcons!