SUNO's Basketball Dominance Continues: Two Players Named to HBCUAC Preseason All-Conference Teams
The Southern University at New Orleans (SUNO) Knights are once again making waves in the Historically Black Colleges and Universities Athletic Conference (HBCUAC). This time, they have two standout players on the 2025-26 Preseason All-Conference Teams. Men's basketball star Jamal "Tall" Gibson has been named the HBCUAC Preseason Player of the Year, solidifying his status as one of the most dominant players in small-college basketball. Women's basketball phenom Jordan Harris earned a spot on the Preseason All-HBCUAC First Team, showcasing her ability to take over games in crucial moments.
Gibson, a two-time HBCUAC Player of the Year and Defensive Player of the Year, continues to dominate the court. Nationally, he led the NAIA in rebounding (16.4 per game) and topped the HBCUAC in scoring (23.2 points per game), ranking fifth in the nation. His exceptional performance earned him the Makeda Excellence Award for the second consecutive year. Gibson's leadership and consistency have earned him 14 Offensive Player of the Week and 15 Defensive Player of the Week honors, and he became the first player in SUNO history to be named NAIA Defensive Player of the Week twice.
On January 6, 2025, Gibson achieved a remarkable milestone by scoring his 1,000th career point against Fisk University in just his 47th career game, making him the fastest player in SUNO history to reach this mark. As a two-time NAIA All-American, Gibson holds school records for points, rebounds, and consecutive double-doubles in a single season.
SUNO Director of Athletics and Men's Basketball Head Coach James A. Matthews, III, praised Gibson's exceptional talent, stating, 'Jamal is a special player. His normal level of play is abnormal for anyone else, but he consistently demonstrates his dominance. Some voters may experience fatigue, but his leadership and impact are undeniable.'
On the women's side, Jordan Harris shines as one of the premier guards in the HBCUAC. Her ability to take over games in crucial moments and provide consistent offensive sparks fueled the Knights' resurgence last season. Coming off a breakout 2024-25 season, Harris ranked third in the conference in three-point percentage (35.8%), scored 353 total points (8th in the league), and hit 62 three-pointers (4th in the conference). With her senior campaign underway, she is just 40 points shy of 1,000 career points.
Beyond her impressive statistics, Harris embodies the spirit of discipline, determination, and leadership that defines SUNO Athletics. As a team captain, she balances athletic success with academic excellence and community involvement, setting a strong example for the program.
SUNO Women's Basketball Head Coach Destinie Smith praised Harris's exceptional leadership, saying, 'Jordan has been the heart of our women's program. She's a true competitor who leads by example and delivers when it matters most. Her recognition is a testament to her commitment to excellence and the lasting impact she's making at SUNO.'
