Sports

Local Basketball Stars Selected for Prestigious All-Star Game

This year, two distinguished senior guards from collegiate basketball programs in the region have earned a coveted spot in the 2026 NABC-Reese’s Division I College All-Star Game. Javon Bennett, representing the University of Dayton, and Peter Suder, from Miami University, are set to showcase their talents on this esteemed platform, a recognition of their exceptional performance and leadership throughout the recent season. Their inclusion celebrates their individual achievements and the collective success of their teams, underscoring their pivotal roles on the court.

Javon Bennett demonstrated remarkable prowess for the Dayton Flyers, consistently leading the team in both scoring, with an average of 15.8 points per game, and assists, tallying 2.0 per game. His career at the University of Dayton culminated with an impressive 1,204 points, making him one of only three transfer student-athletes to surpass the 1,000-point mark for the institution. Under his influence, the Flyers concluded their season with a commendable 25-12 record, reaching the NIT quarterfinals. Similarly, Peter Suder was a driving force for the Miami RedHawks, topping their scoring charts with 14.8 points per game. Suder played an integral part in the RedHawks’ outstanding 32-2 season, which notably included an undefeated 31-0 regular season. The team advanced past SMU in the First Four of the NCAA Tournament before their journey concluded in the First Round against Tennessee. Adding to the excitement, Bruce Thornton of Ohio State and former Dayton Flyer Mike Sharavjamts are also slated to compete in the All-Star Game, promising a high-caliber display of collegiate basketball.

The NABC All-Star Game is scheduled for Friday at 3:30 p.m. at Lucas Oil Stadium, offering fans an exciting opportunity to witness these talented athletes in action. The event will be broadcast live on the CBS Sports Network, and admission is free, making it accessible to a wide audience eager to celebrate the achievements of these collegiate stars. This gathering of top-tier talent not only celebrates individual accomplishments but also inspires future generations of athletes, fostering a spirit of excellence and dedication within the sport.