Rome. Ga. – The Berry College men's basketball team capped off an outstanding season, claiming the SAA championship on Saturday after defeating Oglethorpe 72-58. The win gave the Vikings its first SAA title since 2018. To top it off, the entire Vikings team cut down the nets in celebration.
 
"To win the regular season and SAA Conference Tournament is a testament to the hard work and determination of our student-athletes," said head coach Mitch Cole. "This was a complete group effort not only from our current team, but also from the players who laid a winning foundation over the last 3 years."
 
On Friday, the Vikings won in thrilling fashion, defeating Hendrix 64-63 after trailing the entire game and by 18 at one point. Freshman Chase Ellis led all scorers with 21 points and came up strong on the defensive side of the ball, coming up with two clutch steals late in the game. Senior Rob Mbenoun added 12 points while Michael Johnson added 11.
 
"Our semi-final game against Hendrix was a true example of resilience," said Cole. "We were on our heels the whole game and couldn't find our stride. To stay the course and win in the end was inspiring." 
 
On Saturday, the Vikings jumped out to an early 21-10 lead over Oglethorpe and didn't stop there. As a team, the Vikings shot 48.3 percent from the field and 36.7 percent from the arc. They outrebounded the Petrels 41-27.
 
"Our championship game against Oglethorpe was a fitting end to the weekend as our guys experienced something they will remember for the rest of their lives, said Cole. "Cutting down the nets in the Cage Center! To see all of our seniors go out on that note was a special moment. The beauty in this team was the fact that no one really cared who got the credit, they simply wanted to win and play at a championship level. That mentality has led to a championship season and a top 15 national ranking. I can honestly say it's a privilege to be around these guys every day. I'm most proud of who they are as young men and how they represent Berry College."
 
Mbenoun was named the tournament MVP, scoring 14 points in Saturday's game in a perfect 5-5 effort, and Ellis was named to the all-tournament team.
 
Men's All-Tournament
Seth Stanley – Hendrix
Conor O'Sullivan – Birmingham-Southern
Lane Foster – Oglethorpe
Dimetri Chambers – Oglethorpe
Chase Ellis – Berry
Rob Mbenoun – Berry (MVP)