Forged by the First Half, Focused on the Finish: SUNO Men’s Basketball Eyes Championship Push

The first half of the 2025–26 season has tested the Southern University at New Orleans men's basketball program in every way imaginable. Close losses, tough road environments, and a demanding schedule have all played a role in shaping a Knights team that now finds itself battle-ready and firmly positioned near the top of the HBCU Athletic Conference West Division.

At 6–9 overall, SUNO's record only tells part of the story. A 4–1 conference mark has revealed the Knights' true identity—one built on physicality, rebounding, defensive intensity, and a belief that their best basketball is still ahead.

"We've grown through the ups and downs," said Head Coach James A. Matthews, III. "This group has been tested early, and that's important. The goal now is to take everything we've learned and apply it consistently in the second half of the season."

Establishing the Identity

SUNO has been at its best when controlling the paint and dictating the pace of the game. The Knights average 75.2 points per game overall and nearly 78 points per contest in conference play, while out-rebounding league opponents by more than six boards per game. That interior advantage has allowed SUNO to generate second-chance opportunities and limit opponents to one shot.

Defensively, the Knights have taken a major step forward in conference play, holding HBCUAC opponents to under 37 percent shooting from the field and just under 26 percent from three-point range. 

"When we defend and rebound, everything else opens up," Matthews said. "That's where our confidence comes from. That's championship-level effort." 

Impact Players Leading the Charge

Junior center Dorian Booker has been the foundation of SUNO's interior success. Booker leads the Knights in scoring with 217 points while shooting over 61 percent from the field, providing efficiency, toughness, and a calming presence on the floor. 

"Dorian gives us stability," Matthews said. "He understands spacing, he finishes through contact, and he anchors us defensively. You need a presence like that to win in this league."

Freshman wing Jaylon Hicks has quickly emerged as one of SUNO's most complete players. Second on the team in scoring, Hicks also leads the Knights in rebounds, steals, and blocks, impacting every phase of the game with relentless energy. 

"He plays the game the right way," Matthews said. "Effort, toughness, and accountability—those things don't fluctuate, and that's what makes him special." 

In the backcourt, senior Caleb Williams has provided steady leadership and timely shot-making. A starter in every game this season, Williams has connected on more than 40 percent of his three-point attempts, stretching defenses and creating space for SUNO's interior attack.

"Caleb brings poise," Matthews said. "When the game slows down, he doesn't panic. That matters in close games and championship moments." 

Turning Lessons Into Momentum

While non-conference play exposed areas for growth—particularly ball security and road consistency—the Knights have responded with improved offensive efficiency and smarter decision-making in league play. SUNO averages fewer turnovers in conference games and has posted a positive net efficiency against HBCUAC opponents. 

"We're learning how to win possessions," Matthews said. "That's what separates good teams from great teams." 

As the season enters its second half, the Knights are no longer searching for their identity. They've established it—and now the focus shifts to sustaining it. 

Eyes on a Championship Finish

SUNO's approach moving forward is rooted in discipline and belief. With a strong conference standing, a dominant rebounding presence, emerging young talent, and veteran leadership, the Knights have all the pieces in place for a postseason run. 

"Our mindset is simple," Matthews said. "We want to be playing our best basketball when everything's on the line. That's the standard we've set, and that's what champions do." 

With adversity behind them and opportunity ahead, SUNO enters the second half of the season not just competing—but preparing to contend.

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.

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.