SUNO Men’s Basketball: A Historic Resurgence

The SUNO Knights men's basketball team made history this season, achieving milestones not seen in over a decade. With a double-digit win total for the first time since the 2013-14 campaign and a 9-8 conference record—its best in 11 years—the Knights have reestablished themselves as a force to be reckoned with in the HBCU Athletic Conference (HBCUAC).

 

The season ended on a high note as SUNO secured an electrifying 82-78 victory over longtime rival Xavier on Feb. 20, a statement win that showcased the Knights' growth and resilience. Along the way, SUNO took down the conference's top programs, earning hard-fought wins over Stillman College, Tougaloo College, and Philander Smith. The triumph at Philander Smith was particularly historic, marking the first time the Knights had ever won on the Panthers' home court since their entry into the conference.

 

SUNO's high-powered offense and relentless defense have been at the core of its success. The Knights finished the regular season ranked second in the HBCUAC in points per game (78.4) and field goals made per game (28.7). Their dominance on the boards was unmatched, leading the conference in total rebounds per game (41.4) and defensive rebounds per game (28.1). Additionally, their unselfish play resulted in 15.9 assists per game, the second-highest mark in the conference.

 

On the defensive end, the Knights were a nightmare for opponents, leading the HBCUAC in blocks per game (5.1) across all contests. Their tenacity on the glass and ability to alter shots made them a defensive powerhouse throughout the season.

 

The heart and soul of the Knights, Jamal "Tall" Gibson continued his meteoric rise, solidifying his place in program history. He led SUNO in every major statistical category except blocks, earning an astounding 14 Offensive Player of the Week honors and 15 Defensive Player of the Week honors. His dominance on the defensive end was recognized nationally as he became the first player in SUNO history to be named NAIA Defensive Player of the Week twice.

 

Gibson reached a career milestone on January 6, 2025, against Fisk University, scoring his 1,000th career point in just his 47th game—making him the fastest player in program history to hit the mark. He is on pace to break his own single-season scoring record of 630 points, with 625 points already heading into the postseason.

 

Nationally, Gibson has been a rebounding machine, leading the entire NAIA with 438 total rebounds (16.2 per game). He also tops the HBCUAC in scoring at 23.1 points per game and is once again the frontrunner for Conference Player of the Year and Defensive Player of the Year, accolades he claimed last season.

 

While Gibson led the charge, the Knights received key contributions across the roster. Transfer guard Tyon Thompson, a Preseason All-HBCUAC selection, was the team's second-leading scorer and also eclipsed 1,000 career points this season. His scoring ability and veteran leadership were instrumental in SUNO's success.

 

Freshman sharpshooter Donte Briggs emerged as one of the best perimeter threats in the conference, knocking down 41.5 percent of his three-pointers, ranking fourth in the HBCUAC. His impressive play has made him a frontrunner for Freshman of the Year.

 

Fellow transfer Tony White added depth and versatility, rounding out a strong core that helped the Knights break new ground this season.

 

As the Knights prepare for postseason play, they do so with momentum, confidence, and a hunger to build on their record-breaking season. With Gibson leading the charge, key transfers making an impact, and a rising freshman class, the resurgence of SUNO Men's Basketball is well underway.

 

Next up for the Knights is their opening round game against Rust College at the HBCUAC 2025 Hope Credit Union Basketball Championship. Tip-off is set for 2 p.m. at Stillman's Birthright Alumni Hall. Fans can watch the game live on HBCUACTV or by downloading the Urban Edge Network app and clicking on the HBCUAC channel.

For more information about SUNO Athletics, visit sunoathletics.com.

 

 

-SUNOKNIGHTLIFE-

 

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