Knights Rally, Defeat Wiley to go 3-0 in HBCUAC Play

MARSHALL, Texas [December 5, 2025] – Southern University at New Orleans overcame an early deficit to defeat Wiley University 83-77 on Thursday night at Alumni Gymnasium, improving their conference record to 3-0 in a thrilling back-and-forth battle.

The Knights (4-6, 3-0) trailed 36-30 at halftime but dominated the second half, outscoring the Wildcats 53-41 to secure the road victory before a crowd of 40.

Second Half Surge Powers SUNO

After struggling in the opening period, SUNO found their rhythm after intermission. The Knights shot an impressive 56.8% (21-37) from the field in the second half, erasing Wiley's lead with a series of momentum-shifting runs.

Hicks Takes Over in Critical Moments

Jaylon Hicks delivered when it mattered most, scoring 12 of his game-high 17 points in the second half. The dynamic guard finished 7-of-17 from the field with three three-pointers, six rebounds, and four steals in 36 minutes of floor time.

Hicks sparked SUNO's early momentum with back-to-back buckets to open the game, giving the Knights their first lead at 2-0. But his most crucial contribution came in the second half when he ignited a game-changing 9-0 run. After Wiley took a 38-30 lead at the 19:52 mark, Hicks drilled a three-pointer at 17:55 to tie the game at 38-38, then followed with another three-pointer at 8:54 to extend SUNO's lead to 65-53.

His dunk at 7:55 following a steal pushed the advantage to 67-53, effectively breaking Wiley's spirit and giving SUNO their largest lead of the night at 16 points with 6:23 remaining.

Jackson's Explosive Second Half

The story of the game was the incredible performance by reserve Tynerion Jackson, who provided the spark SUNO desperately needed. Jackson entered the game in the second half and was absolutely unstoppable, scoring all 15 of his points on a remarkable 6-of-7 shooting performance in just nine minutes of action.

Jackson's surge began at the 15:33 mark when he converted a layup assisted by Donte Briggs. He followed with another layup at 15:04, then connected on free throws at 14:22 after being fouled. His dominance in the paint continued with jumpers at 12:00 and 9:44, and he capped his impressive outing with a layup at 3:31 and a free throw at 2:23.

"Tynerion came in and gave us exactly what we needed," praised head coach after the game. "His energy and efficiency changed the complexion of the game."

Booker Controls the Boards

Dorian Booker was a force on the glass, recording a double-double with 11 points and 11 rebounds (four offensive). The forward shot 5-of-10 from the field and added a block and a steal in 21 minutes. His second-half performance was particularly crucial, as he scored eight of his 11 points after intermission, including a pivotal putback layup at 16:45 that gave SUNO a 42-38 lead.

Booker's defensive presence was felt throughout, and his steal at 18:01 in the second half led to Hicks' three-pointer that tied the game, a crucial turning point for the Knights.

Williams Orchestrates the Offense

Guard Caleb Williams showcased his playmaking ability with six assists to go along with nine points. All but one of Williams' points came in the second half, including a crucial three-pointer at 13:49 that extended SUNO's lead to 51-44. He hit another three at 12:37, pushing the advantage to 56-47 and keeping Wiley at arm's length during their attempted comeback.

Williams' court vision was on full display as he assisted on several key baskets, including Hicks' dunk and multiple layups by Jackson during his explosive run.

Daniels Provides Energy

Devin Daniels contributed eight points, three rebounds, two assists, and a block in 25 minutes. His two early dunks set the tone, including a thunderous slam at 14:32 in the first half and another at 8:45. In the second half, Daniels assisted on Hicks' three-pointer at 17:55 and scored on a layup at 19:31 to help SUNO weather Wiley's early second-half push.

Key Momentum Shifts

The game featured several dramatic momentum swings. After Wiley's LaBree Williams hit his third three-pointer to give the Wildcats a 36-29 lead late in the first half, SUNO responded with determination in the second period.

The critical turning point came midway through the second half. After Wiley cut the deficit to single digits, SUNO responded with a decisive 14-6 run punctuated by Hicks' electrifying plays and Jackson's efficient scoring. The Knights never looked back, maintaining control despite Wiley's late surge.

Down the stretch, SUNO's experience showed. When Wiley's Donavan Seamster hit consecutive three-pointers to cut the lead to 73-64 at 3:51, the Knights responded with poise. Hicks' dunk at 0:20, assisted by Williams, sealed the victory and sent SUNO's bench into celebration.

Bench Production Proves Decisive

SUNO's bench outscored Wiley's reserves 31-27, with Jackson's 15 points leading the way. The Knights also dominated points off turnovers, converting Wiley's 20 miscues into 27 points compared to just 16 for the Wildcats off SUNO's 15 turnovers.

Wiley's Effort Falls Short

Wiley (1-9, 0-2) received strong performances from Donavan Seamster, who poured in 18 points on 7-of-12 shooting with four three-pointers, and Cortez Collins, who recorded 16 points, seven rebounds, and three blocks.

LaBree Williams added 13 points in the first half but was held to just one point after intermission as SUNO's defense clamped down. The Wildcats' 20 turnovers and 53.8% free-throw shooting (7-of-13) proved too much to overcome.

By The Numbers

The Knights connected on 70.4% (19-27) from the free-throw line and forced 10 steals while committing just 15 turnovers. SUNO controlled the paint with 42 points and shot an efficient 46.0% from the field. The Knights' 15 assists demonstrated their unselfish ball movement, with Williams and Briggs (three assists) leading the way.

The victory marks SUNO's third straight conference win as they continue to build momentum in league play. The Knights will look to carry this energy into their next contest on Saturday, December 6 against Philander Smith University. Tip-off is for 3 p.m. at PSU's Mims Gymnasium. Fans can catch the action on Urban Edge Network.

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

-SUNOKNIGHTLIFE-

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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.