Thunderducks Start Off New Year Hot

By Chase Upton

DALLAS – Dallas College Richland's No. 12 nationally-ranked men's basketball team started off 2024 hot with a 93-61 win over the University of Arkansas Cossatot.

The Thunderducks (6-6) were in control from the jump, starting the game on a 10-2 run. The Colts (4-12) were able to bring the score to within four with two minutes remaining in the first half, but Richland closed the half with an eight-point lead. The Thunderducks dominated the second half, outscoring Cossatot, 50-26.

Richland was paced by sophomore guard Taven Washington's 20-point, seven-rebound performance. Washington led the game in both categories. He was 8 of 14 from the field. Sophomores Rodrick Yarbrough and Jhi Jackson also added 11 and 10 points, respectively, en route to the Thunderducks' third straight victory.

The Thunderducks shot 58.2 percent from the floor. They sank 24 of 31 free throws for 77.4 percent.

Richland's next matchup will be at home 6 p.m. Thursday against Tribulation Prep. The Thunderducks open the Dallas Athletic Conference schedule nine days later when they take on Dallas College North Lake at home 1 p.m. Jan. 20.