JACKSON, Tenn. — The Allen University men's basketball team finished the 2025-26 season the same way it began — in the win column.
In a high-scoring, back-and-forth battle at J.F. Lane Gymnasium, the Yellow Jackets erupted for a season-high 100 points, defeating Lane College 100–95 in their finale. The performance marked the first time Allen has reached the century mark since the 2019–2020 season — and the most points scored in a single game this year.
And fittingly, the final highlight belonged to junior Christopher McKnight, who brought the road crowd to its feet with an emphatic windmill dunk in the closing moments — a statement finish to a resilient season.
Allen shot an efficient 52.3% from the field, knocked down eight three-pointers, and attacked the paint relentlessly, finishing with 44 points inside and 29 fast-break points. The Yellow Jackets also shared the ball showing team chemistry, recording 20 assists while navigating a game that featured 14 lead changes and 10 ties.
Senior guard Ashton Henderson led the scoring effort with 21 points, knocking down two threes in the process. McKnight added 18 points, including a perfect 6-of-6 performance from the line, while providing energy on both ends of the floor.
Junior Guard Shadale Knight delivered one of his most complete performances of the season, contributing 16 points, five rebounds, and six assists, while controlling key possessions in the second half including the deciding made free throws to seal the game. Sterling Blakely sparked the offense with 13 points, and Julian McGowan added 13 points of his own to keep the pressure on Lane's defense.
Jacquez Shuler anchored the interior with 10 rebounds, while Jaren Phillips provided additional scoring balance in a game where seven Yellow Jackets scored seven or more points.
Lane's Elijah Lewis poured in 30 points to keep the contest tight, but Allen's offensive efficiency and composure down the stretch proved decisive.
SEASON PERSPECTIVE:
Though the 2025-26 campaign now comes to a close, the Yellow Jackets' journey was defined by resilience. Early season-ending injuries to key contributors forced younger players into major roles sooner than expected — a challenge Head Coach Douglas Whittler embraced. Those growing pains translated into growth, toughness, and valuable experience.
After the final horn, Whittler could be seen high-fiving his players — not just celebrating a win, but recognizing the development that unfolded over the season. Through adversity, a foundation was built.
And as the program turns the page, one thing is clear:
The light at the end of the tunnel isn't just hope — it looks like a SIAC trophy.
