Basketball Recap: Michael 'MJ' Jackson Key Part of Team Effort in Knights Win

Vanguard won the last time they faced Columbia and things went their way on Saturday too. The Knights snuck past the Tigers with a 58-54 win. The victory made it back-to-back wins for the Knights.

Michael 'MJ' Jackson

Steals

12/13/25 @ Columbia	4
12/11/25 @ West Port	3
12/10/25 vs Lake Weir	2
12/06/25 vs Santa Fe	2

Vanguard's success was the result of a balanced attack that saw several players step up, but Michael 'MJ' Jackson led the charge by putting up 18 points in addition to six boards and four steals. Jackson is on a roll when it comes to steals, as he's now grabbed two or more in each of the last four games he's played. Cayden Croskey was another key player, scoring 14 points.

Vanguard was working as a unit and finished the game with 12 assists. They easily outclassed their opponents in that department as Columbia only racked up three.

When it comes to explaining why Columbia lost, don't look at Murkail Cray. Despite the final result, he shot 75% from the field on his way to 16 points. Thanks to that strong game, Cray now owns an excellent 51.4% shooting accuracy. The team also got some help courtesy of Shaheed White, who went 8-for-13 en route to 16 points and five rebounds.

Vanguard's victory bumped their record up to 6-3. As for Columbia, their loss ended a six-game streak of wins at home dating back to last season and dropped them to 3-3.

Looking ahead, Vanguard will be home for the holidays to greet Gainesville at 7:30 p.m. on Tuesday. As for Columbia, they will head out to square off against The Rock at 7:30 p.m. on Tuesday. The Tigers will be up against the Lions' rather soft defense (which has allowed 55.29 points per contest), so fans could be in store for a big offensive performance.