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MBB

General 4/15/2025 1:00:00 PM Braden Mottor

From the Tip-Off to Final Buzzer: The Eagles’ Season in Review

Regular Season Recap:
The PCC Eagles basketball team concluded their 2024–25 season with a 13–15 overall record and a solid 5–3 finish in conference play. While their journey ended with an early exit in the South Region tournament, the season was filled with memorable milestones, thrilling victories, and moments of resilience that reflected the team's growth and determination. "We took some big steps this year—being ranked in the Top 10 nationally for six weeks and finishing as the #1 defensive team in the country," said Coach Bell, reflecting on the team's progress.

The Eagles kicked off the season with back-to-back wins—something the program hadn't accomplished since 1999. One of the season's standout moments came in their historic first-ever matchup against #1 ranked Spurgeon College. The Eagles delivered an unforgettable performance, shooting over 60% from the field while holding the nation's highest-scoring team to just 39% shooting and forcing an impressive 26 turnovers.

Despite the strong start, the Eagles faced adversity with a six-game losing streak from November 25 through January 14, a challenging stretch that tested their resolve. But the team bounced back with determination, igniting a five-game winning streak that re-energized their season. The highlight came on the road with a dramatic 74–73 buzzer-beater victory over longtime rival Bob Jones University—an instant classic that swung momentum firmly in the Eagles' favor.

As the regular season drew to a close, the Eagles found their stride, winning three of their final four games. Senior Night was especially memorable, as the team delivered a dominant 106–77 win over Trinity Baptist College, giving their senior class a well-deserved send-off. "This year's seniors won more games over a three-year span than any class since 2015–2017, totaling 37 victories," Coach Bell noted proudly.

Post Season Recap:
Despite a strong finish to the regular season, the Eagles' postseason run came to an end in the opening round of the South Region tournament with a hard-fought 65–70 loss to Toccoa Falls College. Though the defeat closed the chapter on their 2024–25 campaign, the team's effort throughout the year embodied their competitive spirit and resilience. Reflecting on the season, Coach Bell noted, "Winning 13 games was good, but we let a few slip away—six games we were either tied or had a small lead with two minutes left. Finishing those could've changed our season."

Individual Awards:

Liam Gerdts: Second Team All-American & First Team All-Region
Kaiden Pack: First Team All-Region
Aaron Wagner: Second Team All-Region
Kyle Evers: Scholar Athlete

Looking Ahead:
With a strong core of returners and valuable lessons gained from this season, the Eagles are poised to build on their momentum and take the next step in their journey. The 2024–25 campaign came with its share of highs and lows, but the team's resilience and ability to push through adversity have laid a solid foundation for the future.

Looking ahead, Coach Bell shared his optimism: "Next year will bring new opportunities for players to step into leadership roles. They're hungry, motivated, and ready to see if they can elevate this program to new heights."

Players Mentioned

#21 Kyle Evers: G; 5' 10"; Senior

#50 Liam Gerdts: F; 6' 6"; Junior

#3 Kaiden Pack: G; 6' 2"; Junior

#25 Aaron Wagner: G; 6' 5"; Senior

Players Mentioned

#21 Kyle Evers
: 5' 10"; Senior
: G

#50 Liam Gerdts
: 6' 6"; Junior
: F

#3 Kaiden Pack
: 6' 2"; Junior
: G

#25 Aaron Wagner
: 6' 5"; Senior
: G