OVERLAND PARK, Kan. –  The No. 15-ranked Johnson County Community College men's basketball team opened its 2024-25 season with an 82-64 victory over Baker University JV on Friday night at the JCCC Gymnasium.  The Cavaliers had four players in double figure scoring led by sophomore forward Brandon Mann, along with redshirt freshman forward Tavian Cruse, redshirt freshman guard Joey Robinson and sophomore guard Mauryon Turner.

In the first half, the Cavaliers jumped out to a double-digit lead thanks to play of Cruse. The 6-5 forward nearly posted a double-double in the half with 15 points and nine rebounds. He would finish with 18 points on 8-of-14 shooting and 11 boards. 

Mann was even better from the field knocking down 11-of-15 shots, along with two free throws, to post a game-high 24 points, 16 coming in the second half. He also grabbed eight rebounds along with three assists and two steals.

Robinson, a former Blue Valley Northwest star and transfer from Central Missouri, had a solid line in his collegiate debut finishing with 15 points and eight rebounds. He also led the team with three made 3-point baskets.

Turner was the fourth player to post double figures with 11. He was 3-for-5 from the field and a perfect 5-of-5 at the free throw line. He also hauled in six boards.

Not one of Baker's starters reached double figures, with Colby Kiedrowski lead the Wildcats with 10 points off the bench.

The Cavaliers take to the road for the next game. They travel to Sioux City, Iowa to take on Western Iowa Tech on Monday, November 4, then return home to host Iowa Lakes Community College on Friday, November 8 and Southwestern Community College Saturday, November 9. Opening tips are scheduled for 7 p.m. and 6 p.m. respectively.