The Horizon League champion men’s soccer team took the spotlight at Thursday’s men’s basketball half time show. The team was honored at center court for its historic season. 

As the men took the court, Oakland’s announcer, Kevin Beers, read the long list of accomplishments that came from this season. A frustrating 0-5 start to the season ended in both regular season and tournament titles.  The team then went on to win their first round NCAA game against number 24 seated Kentucky. 

Individually, the Golden Grizzlies had five players selected for Horizon League honors. Joseph Tinnion, Shawn Claud Lawson, and Matt Dudley were first team selections. Cody Archibald and Wes Mink were named to the Horizon League second team. Mink was also selected on the all-freshman team. 

Coach Erik Pogue was also awarded Coach of the Year in the Horizon League.

The team took center court to pose for a picture while the crowd cheered.  The crowd’s attention was then directed to the video board where a video honoring their season played. The video, made by the athletic department, highlighted some of the biggest goals of the season including Archibald’s header to take the lead against Kentucky.

“I was getting a little worked up on the court watching the video,” Tinnion said. “It made me want to get back out there and battle it out with my teammates again. It honestly was a great experience being recognized for our achievements lie that in front of a big crowd.”