The Neumann University Club Basketball team traveled down to the University of Delaware to compete in their final three-game series of the 2017-18 National Club Basketball Association's (NCBBA) season. 

The first game was controlled by Neumann who led the whole game which started off with an early posterizing, reverse dunk by Muhammad Amin. A tone was set for the day that Neumann was here to fight on every possession. Neumann took control in the first half and took a double digit lead into halftime. Delaware fought all game but Neumann was able to control the scoreboard for over 39 of the 40 minutes, however, they surrendered a layup with 40 seconds left in the game to give Delaware the one-point lead, 54-55. After an unsuccessful offensive series, Neumann was forced to foul as time was expiring and lost game one, 54-57.  

A tough loss on the scoreboard was accompanied by a tougher loss on the court. Neumann's wing guard, Jake Armano, suffered an ankle injury that sidelined him the rest of the day. Despite being immobilized and in pain, Jake was engaged with his teammates, offering support and advice from his perspective on the bench. An awesome character trait to see from a young man who was hurting both physically and emotionally because he was unable to compete with his teammates. 

Game two had multiple lead changes in the second half and was the definition of a back and forth contest. Three overtime periods were necessary to determine a winner. Isaiah George had an all around game grabbing eight rebounds, 10 points, five assists and two blocks including one of George's signature "Lebron chase down" block from behind. When Neumann needed a big play in the 2nd half, Tony Banks led the charge. Whether it was a defensive stop or rebound, Tony transitioned to lead the fast break and found multiple, open teammates for key baskets.  One time to Hassan Grimes for a three in the deep corner to tie the game with under five minutes left; this wouldn't be Hassan's only big three pointer of the day as Game Three featured a few from the deep corner, as well.  Hassan found himself hustling every Delaware player and picking up multiple key steals. 

With under 10 seconds of regulation, Neumann missed a jump shot and needed to grind out one more defensive stop to force overtime. With team defense and communication, the club forced overtime and kept that defensive stinginess until the final second of the third overtime. With a two-point Neumann lead and seven econds on the clock of the third overtime - it was Delaware's ball. A few deflections by Neumann and the basketball found itself in a Delaware player's hand for a quick shot. A football's Hail Mary = a basketball three-point buzzer beater and the Knights fell in game two by a single point. 

Game three featured a team effort and 26-point victory for the Neumann Knights, 86-60. Neumann jumped out to a 13-5 lead. Zavier Pittman was a defensive force and offensive rebounding machine. Anchored by Zavier on defense the team dominated the entire game. Tamir Wade led all scorers with 23 points and Malik Stewart recorded a double/double with 10 rebounds and 10 points. One play that stood out was an offensive rebound/put back layup by Stewart followed by a defensive steal in the back court — all within a quick five seconds. 

Brandon Peters recorded 8 assists with 12 points and an impressive 0 turnovers. Many times Peters passed up an open three to find an open teammate for the assist. As one of the best shooters on the team, this effort shows the selflessness and team first mentality from the sophomore point guard.

Without three key players, Jared Christmann, Mike Reynolds and Dave Mattern, Neumann was filling in holes of production typically provided by Jared, Mike and Dave. Jared is a multi-sport athlete and was away at a golf tournament for the weekend. A force down low and always someone asking how he can get better or help the team, Jared is a work horse and team player. 

Mike Reynolds led the team in 3pt % for the season and was a shooting threat all year. Also in addition to the absence of Mike's shooting ability, Mike is constantly moving without the ball and creating opportunities for teammates - that was missed in the Delaware series. 

Dave Mattern, also a multi-sport athlete and aspiring basketball referee. He was consistent in his commitment to teammates and improving his game all year. Often coming straight from another practice or a referee meeting, Dave showed up and made his teammates better through his hard work and basketball knowledge. Known for a solid mid-range game, Dave's presence was also missed.  

The team also thanks Nina Conner, former varsity High School basketball starter at Avon Grove. Studying physical therapy at Neumann, she is a junior and the team's manager the last two seasons. At every practice and game, Nina's work ethic and contributions were unmatched. In addition, large thank you team chaplain Marco Sifoni. He is a former understudy of Temple basketball's program that brought Division I knowledge to our team. Marco was one of the team's managers, committed to helping the basketball program while also receiving his undergrad at Temple. Having Marco's guidance from a chaplain's perspective was a large contribution to the growth and character development of the team - coupled with his basketball knowledge, this was a unique and awesome addition to the team.