2001-2002 Men’s Basketball Team

The 2001–02 NDSCS Men’s Basketball Team, led by Coach Craig Irwin, delivered one of the most successful athletic seasons in the college’s history. In their 87th season, the Wildcats set 14 school records and achieved an impressive 31-2 record, finishing #9 in the NJCAA DI rankings—the highest ever for NDSCS.

Their high-powered offense averaged 102.1 points per game, scoring 3,369 total points and surpassing 100 points in 18 games. They also set records for rebounds, including a remarkable 78 in one game. The team’s only two losses came in a close overtime battle in Colorado and a hard-fought district championship game against top-ranked Schoolcraft College.

Fan support surged throughout the season, culminating in a packed Blikre Activities Center during the district championship game. The Wildcats claimed both the MonDak and Region XIII titles, earning widespread respect for their tenacity and skill.

The roster blended experience with emerging talent, with nine sophomores, eight freshmen, and two red shirts. Standout J.R. Patrick was named an All-American and went on to play under Coach Dick Davey at Santa Clara and later played professionally. Bruce Dunham set the season assist record (234), while teammates Tom Miley, Shawn Gabbert, and Jared Keaveny made key contributions throughout the year.

Freshmen like David Erbes and Chris Verser brought promise for the program’s future, while red shirts Vyron Phillips and RaShaun Sivels added depth.

Under Coach Irwin’s leadership, the 2001-02 Wildcats demonstrated exceptional teamwork, resilience, and commitment. Their extraordinary season not only rewrote the record books but left an enduring legacy in NDSCS athletics.