Two Valley Basketball Players Reach 1,000-Point Milestone

Kudos go out to student-athletes Abigail Long and Myles Johnson

KALAMAZOO, Mich. - The major college career milestone of scoring 1,000 points has been achieved by two players in the Kalamazoo Valley Community College basketball program, just in time for next week's final game. One player from the women's team, Abigail Long, and one from the men's team, Myles Johnson, accomplished this feat on Feb. 18 and Feb. 11, respectively.

"In my 12 years as athletic director at Kalamazoo Valley, this is the first time that I've had student-athletes reach this milestone," said Athletic Director Russ Panico. "I am in awe and extremely proud of Myles' and Abigail's achievement."

Long, a Portage Central High School graduate who is studying web design and coaching at Valley, is a point guard. She was Michigan Community College Athletic Association (MCCAA) Freshman and Player of the Year last season, averaging 25 points and 10 rebounds. Long is co-captain for the second consecutive year. She has also maintained a 4.0 GPA and is on track to graduate this spring. Last summer, Long was selected to participate in the National Junior College Athletic Association's Annual Women's Basketball Coaches Association All-Star Weekend in Atlanta. Only 40 student-athletes were chosen nationwide.

Johnson, a Portage Northern High School graduate, is a guard and forward. "Johnson is a leader on and off the court," said Head Coach Jim Horn. "His games speak for themselves, but off the court he continues to strive for excellence. Recently our team was asked to come participate in Lincoln Elementary Spirit Week assembly. Johnson and some of our team responded by attending and leading a special segment at the event, which was a big hit. Johnson also takes his studies serious, currently maintaining a 3.54 GPA while keeping his plate full with basketball, academics and community service. He has participated in a total of four service projects so far this school year." He is scheduled to graduate this spring with an associate degree in liberal arts.

Kalamazoo Valley Community College's men's and women's teams are both currently ranked No. 1 in the Michigan Community College Athletic Association Western Conference. The women share the No. 1 spot with Glen Oaks Community College. The men have a conference record of 8-2 (an overall record of 20-5). The women's conference record is 9-1 (an overall record of 15-7). The season ends Feb. 28.