The Daily Dispatch

Hopefully, North Dakota State College of Science head mens basketball coach Scott Schumacher has unlimited minutes on his current wireless plan.

It seems his cell phone has been ringing a lot since the Wildcats won the Region 11 play-in game to advance to the National Junior College tournament in Hutchinson, Kansas.

NDSCS made the trip to Kansas on Sunday, and had their shoot-around Monday prior to an evening banquet.

"They keep you pretty busy at the tournament," Schumacher said. "Especially the first day. Plus, on the opening round of the tournament every team wants to play their best. Right now every team is in the running for a national championship."

The Wildcats (30-2), ranked No. 10 in the final NJCAA poll, will face Southwestern Illinois College (31-2) in Tuesday's opening round at 4:30 p.m.

The Blue Storm, who are ranked No. 5 in the polls, are from Belleville, Illinois and average 84 points per game while allowing 64 points.

Coach Schumacher said one of the Southwestern Illinois players to watch is 6'8" sophomore forward Chris Hines. Also Mykel Cleveland, who is a 6'2" freshman guard.

"They shoot the ball really well," Schumacher said "And they play really solid defense. So, once again, we're going to have to take good care of the ball against them."

As one of only 16 teams left playing right now, the Wildcats have an opportunity to prove themselves and show off the program in front of a national audience.

"I think our players are ready," Schumacher said. "We've only had three practices since winning the Region, but I think it's been three of the most high-energy, focused practices we've had all year. They are looking forward to the challenge."

The Wildcats' game at the National Tournament will be broadcast on KBMW at 4:30 p.m..

Information on the Wildcats at the NJCAA National Tournament can also be found at www.njcaa.org.

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