T-Bird (MBB) Set to Start 2025-26 Season

NMJC men's basketball is set to open the 2025-26 season at home Saturday, Nov. 1 at 5 p.m. against Dallas College Brookhaven. 

The Thunderbirds are coming off a historic Year 3 under head coach Luke Mackay. They matched a school-record for consecutive wins (14), had the best start in program history 14-0, and finished the year 24-7 (10-6) which was the most wins since 2014.

They reached No. 2 during last year matching the highest NJCAA ranking in program history. The T-Birds also sent 10 student-athletes from the 2024-25 to four-year programs.

NMJC returns four players that received minutes from last year's squad in Francois NKoy-Eale, Michael Mackey, Marquan Harris, and Garrison Phelps.

Center Nkoy Eale had a productive summer for team Latvia at the European U20 Championships (B Division). The sophomore won the U20 Championship garnering interest across the DI landscape which saw him recently commit to La Salle University. 

The Thunderbirds have two players on the roster who have been on the team for three seasons in Mike Mackey and Marquan Harris. The duo redshirted their first season but have continued to progress each year. In the offseason, their stock has risen with their production in the summer showcases and jamborees. 

"Very happy for both Mike and Marquan," Coach Mackay said. "They both have worked really hard to grow their game and have become players that impact winning every day for us. Both guys have been huge parts of the rise of the program." 

The T-Birds also return Garrison Phelps. The sophomore is a dynamic player that can fit into nearly any lineup the Thunderbirds choose to roll out. 

"Really excited for Garrison after he had a healthy and productive summer," Coach Mackay said. "The ultimate Swiss Army knife player for us that can play all five spots on offense and defense." 

The Thunderbirds will have a slightly different style this year out on the court. 

"Compared to last year's team we are much bigger and more athletic," Mackay said. "Last year's team depended on skill (shooting and passing) while I believe this team has the ability to score from the perimeter but also should be able to mix that with a physical presence."

The season begins in the November with non-conference and Coach Mackay is looking to get as much as he can in the introductory part of the season before things ramp up when NMJC hits conference play in early January.   

"As we go through our non-conference our goal is continuous growth as individuals and as a group," Coach Mackay said. "If we can stay focused on using each time we step on the floor as a growth opportunity, we should be competitive and be ready for the gauntlet that I league play." 

The Thunderbirds begin non-conference play versus Dallas College Brookhaven Saturday, Nov. 1 in Hobbs, NM at 5 p.m. MDT inside the Caster Activity Center. NMJC fans can watch the game live on the school's YouTube page here.

The game also coincides with the T-Birds Homecoming festivities held during halftime and after the game.