SUNO Men's Basketball Preparing for Crosstown Rivalry
| Final | 1 | 2 | T |
|---|---|---|---|
|
|
37 | 27 | 64 |
|
|
37 | 45 | 82 |
Team Stats
Southern University at New Orleans (LA)
Xavier (LA)
| Game Statistics | Southern University at New Orleans (LA) | Xavier (LA) |
|---|---|---|
| Field Goals | (22-61) | (28-63) |
| Field Goal % | 36.1% | 44.4% |
| Rebounds | 44 | 42 |
| Assists | 14 | 20 |
| Turnovers | 23 | 15 |
| Pts off Turnovers | 14 | 29 |
| 2nd Chance Pts | 10 | 9 |
| Pts in the Paint | 0 | 0 |
| Fastbreak Pts | 0 | 0 |
| Bench Pts | 19 | 17 |
Game Preview — SUNO Knights at Xavier Gold Rush
Date: Wednesday, October 29
Location: Xavier University of Louisiana – Convocation Center
Tip-Off: 7 p.m.
Season Opener Recap
The SUNO Knights tipped off their 2024-25 campaign with a statement win on Homecoming Saturday, defeating Texas A&M–San Antonio, 86-81. The victory gave fans a glimpse of what this year's team can be — balanced, explosive, and resilient.
Freshman Jaylon Hicks, the dynamic wing, made an immediate impact, pouring in a game-high 24 points with 6 assists, 5 rebounds, and a steal. His versatility and energy sparked the Knights on both ends of the floor.
Junior forward Jamal "Tall" Gibson once again proved why he's among the top players in the HBCUAC, registering 23 points and 17 rebounds for another double-double. Gibson's inside dominance and ability to finish through contact were crucial to the Knights' success.
Last Time Out
In their most recent matchup with Xavier (LA), the Knights earned a hard-fought 82-78 road victory, powered by efficient shooting and disciplined execution on both ends of the floor.
Junior Jamal Gibson led the charge with 25 points, 14 rebounds, and 4 blocks, asserting his dominance in the paint and on the glass. He shot 10-of-16 from the field, attacking relentlessly inside and anchoring SUNO's interior defense.
Sophomore guard Donte Briggs provided a major spark in the backcourt, scoring 15 points on 4-of-6 shooting from three-point range while hitting clutch free throws down the stretch.
As a team, the Knights shot an efficient 50% from the field and 45.5% from three, while holding Xavier to 36.8% shooting. SUNO's defense limited second-chance points and forced 14 Xavier turnovers, converting them into key baskets in transition. The Knights also outrebounded the Gold Rush 37-40 overall and won the battle of assists (18-18) in a balanced performance.
The key stretch came in the final minutes, when SUNO broke open a one-possession game with back-to-back buckets by Gibson and Briggs, followed by clutch free throws that sealed the win.
Keys for the Knights to Win
As SUNO heads to Xavier for the rematch, the Knights know what works — and what it takes to win on the road.
- Feed the Interior – Gibson's dominance inside remains the Knights' foundation. Consistent post touches and inside-out play will be essential to collapsing Xavier's defense.
- Control the Pace – Guards Briggs and Hackett must dictate tempo, ensuring the Knights play at their preferred rhythm while minimizing turnovers.
- Limit Mistakes – SUNO turned the ball over 16 times in the last meeting; cleaning that up will be critical against Xavier's pressure.
- Defend the Paint – The Gold Rush thrive on short-range shots and second chances. If the Knights can wall off the lane and force contested jumpers, they'll put themselves in position to win again
Closing Out
After opening the season with a strong homecoming victory, the SUNO Knights head across town looking to stay hot. Behind Gibson's inside presence, Hicks' wing scoring, and the steady leadership of Briggs and Hackett, SUNO has the weapons to challenge anyone in the conference.
If they execute inside-out offense, value possessions, and protect the rim, the Knights can extend their winning streak and make another statement against a tough Xavier squad.
Tip-off is set for 7 p.m. Wednesday at the Xavier University Convocation Center.
-SUNOKNIGHTLIFE-
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.
Stay up to date on sunoathletics.com and on social media.
Facebook/Instagram/X: @sunoathletics
VB IG: @sunoknightsvolleyball
WBB IG: @sunoknightswbb
MBB IG: @sunoknightsmbb
Baseball IG: @sunoknightsbaseball
Baseball X: @sunobsb
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.