SUNO Lands Two Players on HBCUAC Preseason All-Conference Teams

The Southern University at New Orleans (SUNO) Knights are once again making headlines across the Historically Black Colleges and Universities Athletic Conference (HBCUAC), landing two standouts on the 2025–26 Preseason All-Conference Teams. Men's basketball phenom Jamal "Tall" Gibson has been named the HBCUAC Preseason Player of the Year, while women's basketball star Jordan Harris earned a spot on the Preseason All-HBCUAC First Team.

Gibson, a two-time HBCUAC Player of the Year and Defensive Player of the Year, continues to cement his legacy as one of the most dominant players in small-college basketball. Nationally, Gibson led the NAIA in rebounding (16.4 per game) and topped the HBCUAC in scoring (23.2 points per game), a mark that also ranked him fifth in the nation. His consistency and leadership earned him the Makeda Excellence Award for the second straight year, 14 Offensive Player of the Week and 15 Defensive Player of the Week honors, and national recognition as the first player in SUNO history to be named NAIA Defensive Player of the Week twice.

On January 6, 2025, Gibson reached a major 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 hit the mark. Now a two-time NAIA All-American, Gibson holds school records for points, rebounds, and consecutive double-doubles in a single season.

"Jamal is a special player," said SUNO Director of Athletics and Men's Basketball Head Coach James A. Matthews, III. "His normal level of play is abnormal for anyone else, but he shows every game that this is simply what he does. I think some people may have voter fatigue with him, but his dominance is undeniable. He's a leader on and off the court, and I can't wait to see how he builds on his legacy this year."

On the women's side, Jordan Harris continues to shine as one of the premier guards in the HBCUAC. Harris has the ability to take over games in crunch time, and provided a consistent offensive spark that 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). Entering her senior campaign, she is just 40 points shy of 1,000 career points. 

Beyond the numbers, Harris embodies the spirit of discipline, determination, and leadership that defines SUNO Athletics. A team captain, she balances her athletic success with academic excellence and community involvement, setting the tone for a strong program.

"Jordan has been the heart of our women's program," said SUNO Women's Basketball Head Coach Destinie Smith. "She's a competitor in every sense of the word—someone who leads by example and delivers when it matters most. Her recognition is a reflection of her commitment to excellence and the mark she's leaving on SUNO."

The Knights open their 2025–26 seasons later this month as they look to build on last year's success and make a strong push for HBCUAC titles. The men open their season with an October 25, Homecoming matchup against Texas A&M - San Antonio, and the women open at home on October 28 against Louisiana Christian.

Tickets & Media
Season tickets will be available through SUNO Athletics at the Emmett Bashful Administration Building cashier's office. Fans can make their purchase in person or by calling (504) 286-5321.

Media inquiries, interview requests, and credential applications should be directed to athletics@suno.edu.

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About SUNO Athletics
The Southern University at New Orleans Knights Department of Athletics emphasizes competitive excellence, academic achievement and community engagement. For the full 2025–26 schedule, rosters, and ticket information, visit sunoathletics.com and follow @sunoathletics on social media.