Columbia, Mo. - The Columbia College men's basketball team won their first American Midwest Conference championship title since 2016 tonight as they defeated the Mustangs of Central Baptist College by a score of 62-53. As the Cougars had split their regular season contests with CBC, a battle was expected as both teams were playing to extend their season. With a berth in the NAIA National Tournament on the line, the Cougars played some tough basketball down the stretch to earn the lone-AMC nationals bid. 

Columbia played through the first quarter to a 34-21 lead. Collin Parker had 11 points at the half as he went 4-6 from the field. Marlon Allen had six points and five rebounds, as CC led in rebounds 18-11 at halftime. 

In the second half, the Mustangs stepped up their offensive pressure as they outscored the Cougars 32-28. Both teams traded turnovers as adrenaline was high, but the Cougars were good from the free-throw line as they made nine free throws to help secure the win. 

Collin Parker finished the night with 14 points and four rebounds, while Marlon Allen followed with a double-double of 12 points and 11 rebounds. 

With the win, Columbia moves to 23-8 on the season, while CBC ends their season at 21-10. The Cougars now wait to learn their opening round matchup in the NAIA National Tournament; further, this also marks the first time since the 2017-18 season that the Cougars have qualified for the national tournament.