Indian Hills Eliminated in Opening Round of 2026 National Tournament

HUTCHINSON, Kan. — The Indian Hills Warriors earned an automatic bid to the NJCAA Division I National Tournament by capturing the North Central District Championship, securing their 21st national tournament appearance. This appearance total ties for the fifth-most all-time and is the most for any team since 1993. The Warriors were awarded the No. 3 seed following an impressive 30-2 regular season.

After the opening rounds, Indian Hills faced No. 14 seed Gulf Coast State (Fla.), which advanced following a nail-biting 82-79 win over No. 19 Brunswick (N.C.). In the first half of the second-round matchup, Chaz Watson and Taj Au-Duke each scored 10 points, with Au-Duke also adding five assists. Despite strong efforts from both players, Indian Hills entered halftime trailing 41-35.

In the second half, the Warriors found their rhythm and erased the deficit, taking a 61-60 lead on a Watson layup with five minutes remaining. However, the Commodores quickly swung the momentum back in their favor with a 7-0 run, setting up a late 3-pointer that proved to be the dagger.

Indian Hills dominated in the paint, outscoring Gulf Coast State 40-28. However, the Commodores made up the difference with persistent defense, forcing 15 Warrior turnovers, which they turned into 14 points and extra possessions.

Watson led the team with 20 points and six rebounds. Chiang Ring recorded a double-double with 12 points and 10 rebounds, while Au-Duke finished with 17 points and eight assists.

The loss concludes a strong season for the Warriors, who reached the 30-win mark for the first time since 2020.

Game Results:

Second Round: (14) Gulf Coast St. (Fla.) def. (3) Indian Hills, 72-70 - Box Score