DANVILLE, Ill.—March 21, 2026—In a moment that will be etched in program history, the No. 11 Parkland College men's basketball team claimed the NJCAA Division II National Championship on Saturday night, defeating No. 8 Ellsworth Community College 76-68 in an electric title game.

With the win, the Cobras finish the 2025-26 season at 29-7, completing a remarkable postseason run and securing the program's first national championship in 40 years.

Jaiden Martin delivered a championship performance, pouring in a game-high 34 points while adding 8 rebounds. Chris Bush contributed 12 points, while Grant Chamberlain recorded 11 points and 8 rebounds in a strong two-way effort. The Cobras battled through a physical contest, relying on composure and execution down the stretch to pull away late.

Parkland capitalized at the free throw line, knocking down 31-of-40 attempts (77.5%), proving crucial in sealing the victory. Defensively, the Cobras controlled key possessions in the second half, limiting Ellsworth's opportunities and maintaining their lead in the closing minutes.

The championship marks a defining moment for head coach John Bowler and his team. After falling just short in last year's title game, the Cobras returned with purpose and resilience—overcoming adversity throughout the season, including injuries and a shortened rotation, to reach the pinnacle of junior college basketball.

Following the game, several Cobras were honored for their outstanding performances throughout the tournament. Head coach John Bowler was named NJCAA DII Coach of the Year, Jaiden Martin earned Tournament MVP honors, and both Chris Bush and Grant Chamberlain were named to the All-Tournament Team.

Fittingly, this championship comes on the 40th anniversary of Parkland's last national title, adding a powerful layer of significance to an already historic achievement. The 2025-26 Cobras will forever be remembered among the program's greatest teams, bringing a championship back to Champaign and cementing their legacy in Parkland College history.