The Talladega College men's basketball team showed heart and determination over the weekend, going toe-to-toe with two of the NAIA's top programs in a pair of close battles at the Jimmy Faulkner Classic.

The Tornadoes opened play Friday afternoon against William Carey University, falling 94–85 in a high-scoring contest that featured strong offensive balance and hustle on both ends of the floor. Senior forward Shaun Walker led Talladega with a double-double of 15 points and 12 rebounds, setting the tone with energy and leadership inside. Jalen Bing-Wallace added 13 points and eight rebounds, while Eric Howard, Jr. and Tre Simmons each contributed 12 points.

The Tornadoes shot an impressive 48% from the field and 37% from three-point range, scoring 40 points in the paint and 56 points off the bench. Talladega matched William Carey's intensity throughout the game, cutting into the lead late before time expired.

On Saturday night, Talladega nearly pulled off an upset in an overtime thriller against host Faulkner University, falling just short 86–83 after a spirited 45-minute battle. The Tornadoes' offense caught fire again, shooting 60% from the floor and a remarkable 53.8% from beyond the arc.

Walker again led the charge with 16 points, six rebounds, and four assists, while Arthur Williams added 14 points on efficient shooting. Kenneth Jenkins, Jr. tallied 11 points and three assists, and Tre Simmons scored 10 points, including two big three-pointers.

Defensively, the Tornadoes forced 25 turnovers and picked up 12 steals, turning defense into offense and creating momentum throughout the night. The Talladega bench once again made a difference, accounting for 40 points in the game.

While the results didn't fall their way, Talladega's fight and team chemistry were on full display across both contests. The Tornadoes left Montgomery with valuable experience, confidence, and clear signs of growth early in the season.

Talladega (0–2) will look to turn that momentum into results when they hit the road again Thursday to face Wayne State University in Detroit, Michigan.