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Knights Overpower Rams behind Booker's Double-Double

Knights Overpower Rams behind Booker's Double-Double
Box Score
November 20, 2025

Southern University at New Orleans opened HBCU Athletic Conference play with a statement win, defeating Huston–Tillotson 79–56 to improve to 2–6 overall and 1–0 in league play. After battling through what Head Coach James A. Matthews, III called "one of the toughest non-conference schedules we've ever put together," the Knights looked sharp, composed, and fully prepared to assert themselves as conference contenders.

Booker Dominates the Paint

Dorian "Pop" Booker delivered his best performance of the young season, powering SUNO with 18 points, 15 rebounds, and a physical presence that HTU simply could not match. Throughout the night, Booker's work on the glass changed possessions and momentum.

Booker held his own in key sequences on Thursday, grabbing tough defensive rebounds through traffic, including a critical board midway through the second half that led to a transition basket and pushed the Knights' lead back to double digits. He also secured several offensive rebounds that extended possessions and allowed SUNO to reset and control tempo. HTU had no answer for his physicality or effort around the rim.

Booker and Jaylon Hicks combined for 22 defensive rebounds, helping the Knights hold the Rams to just 27.6% shooting on the night—SUNO's strongest defensive performance this season.

Momentum Shifts from the Perimeter

SUNO's guards delivered timely perimeter shooting that halted HTU's attempts to claw back into the game.

Caleb Williams drilled a momentum-shifting three in the first half that stopped an HTU scoring run and reignited SUNO's pace. Later, Erroll Smith hit a deep three from the right wing just moments after an HTU score, pushing the Knights' lead back to two possessions and energizing the crowd inside The Castle.

Each shot came at a moment when HTU threatened to sway momentum—and each time, SUNO's shooters answered with poise.

Guard Play and Tempo Control

From start to finish, SUNO's guards set the tone. They dictated pace, limited HTU transition chances, and stayed under control in the half court. The Knights recorded a season-low turnover total, a major leap forward given the speed and aggressiveness they play with.

Their patience showed up in the passing numbers: 17 assists, tied for their highest of the season, reflecting unselfish decision-making and quality shot creation.

Balanced Offense

Four Knights reached double figures, showcasing the depth and rhythm the offense has been building through non-conference play. Ball movement was crisp, spacing was strong, and SUNO consistently earned high-percentage looks.

Coach Matthews' Postgame Comments

Head Coach James A. Matthews, III praised his team's maturity and execution:

"Tonight showed what happens when we trust each other and play SUNO basketball. We controlled the game on both ends—our defense set the tone, we limited turnovers better than we have all year, and our guards dictated tempo from start to finish. Pop was dominant. He imposed his will in the paint, rebounded through contact, and overwhelmed their post players. This was a complete team win and a big step for us as we open conference play."

A Turning Point

After surviving a brutal non-conference slate designed to prepare them for championship-level competition, the Knights appear to be finding their stride. Thursday night was a blend of composure, physicality, and teamwork—exactly the formula Coach Matthews has been pushing for.

SUNO will look to carry that momentum forward as conference play continues on Saturday, November 22 against Paul Quinn College. Tip-off is slated for 3 p.m. at The Castle.

For the team's schedule, visit sunoathletics.com.

 

-SUNOKNIGHTLIFE-

 

Home Game 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. Admission is $10 for basketball single games and $15 for doubleheaders. SUNO Students are admitted free with their SUNO ID.

 

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.