Spurgeon opened play at the National Championship with a strong offensive performance on Thursday night, defeating Faith Baptist Bible 103 to 90 and punching a ticket to the national semifinal for the third year in a row.
With the win, the Knights continue one of the most consistent postseason runs in program history and now move on to face No. 5 North Central University Rams in the national semifinal.
Fast start sets the tone
Spurgeon came out aggressive and built control early behind transition offense, rebounding, and efficient shooting. The Knights scored 63 points in the first half and took a 10 point lead into the break, answering every push Faith Baptist Bible made with a run of their own.
Even with Faith Baptist Bible knocking down 10 first half threes and keeping the pressure on offensively, Spurgeon never lost command of the game. The Knights continued to attack in the second half, added 40 more points, and made the key plays needed to keep the lead secure down the stretch.
How it was won
Spurgeon's ability to run the floor made a major difference. The Knights piled up 40 fast break points, turning rebounds, steals, and quick outlet passes into easy scoring chances. They also controlled the glass, outrebounding Faith Baptist Bible 46 to 41, and came up with 14 steals while forcing 21 turnovers.
Offensively, Spurgeon had balance across the lineup and multiple players stepped up in big moments. The Knights shot 48.6 percent from the field and knocked down 12 threes, showing both efficiency and depth on the national stage.
Knights leaders
Raven Ortiz led the way with 21 points, 6 assists, and several key plays late, including crucial free throws and transition baskets that helped close the door.
Bishop Duffield added 20 points on 8 of 11 shooting and hit 3 threes, continuing his strong postseason play.
Jack Chamberlin scored 18 points and provided an interior presence throughout the night, while Bohden Duffield turned in a huge all around performance with 17 points, 14 rebounds, 5 assists, and 5 steals.
Joseph Allen filled the stat sheet with 10 points, 9 rebounds, 4 assists, 4 blocks, and 5 steals, anchoring the defensive effort and helping ignite the transition game. DJ Middleton also gave Spurgeon an important lift with 12 points and 4 made threes.
By period
Spurgeon: 63, 40 Total 103
Faith Baptist Bible: 53, 37 Total 90
With the victory, the Knights are back in the national semifinal for the third consecutive season and one step closer to a championship appearance. Up next, Spurgeon will battle No. 5 North Central University Rams with a trip to the national title game on the line.
