DANVILLE, Ill.—March 16, 2026—The No. 11 Parkland College men's basketball team made a statement on the national stage Monday night, knocking off No. 6 Johnson County Community College 86-78 in the opening round of the NJCAA Division II National Championship Tournament.

With the win, the Cobras improve to 27-7 on the season and advance in the national bracket after securing one of the tournament's first major upsets.

Parkland trailed 43-33 at halftime but flipped the script in the second half, erupting for 53 points while holding Johnson County to 35. The Cobras' second-half surge, fueled by efficient shooting and defensive intensity, proved to be the difference in the comeback victory.

Chris Bush and Kodhi McStraw led the way with 20 points apiece, combining for a dominant offensive performance. Grant Chamberlain added 15 points and 6 rebounds, while Jaiden Martin contributed 16 points and a team-high 8 rebounds.

De'Shaun Tolever provided a strong presence off the bench with 10 points, while Nick Harrell added 3 points and 3 rebounds.

As a team, Parkland shot 47.3% (26-55) from the field and an impressive 50.0% (12-24) from three-point range. The Cobras were also solid at the free throw line, converting 22-of-26 attempts (84.6%) and controlling key moments down the stretch.

Up next, the Cobras will face the winner of Game 10 between No. 3 Milwaukee Area Technical College and No. 14 Coastal Alabama North Community College on March 19. Tip-off is scheduled for 7 PM CST.