Hicks, Lawrence Power Knights, Win Conference Honors
January 28, 2026
NEW ORLEANS, La. [January 28, 2026] – Southern University at New Orleans men's basketball had a statement week on the court, and the Historically Black Colleges and Universities Athletic Conference (HBCUAC) men's basketball coaches took notice.
Freshman guard Jaylon Hicks was named both HBCUAC Freshman of the Week and HBCUAC Offensive Player of the Week, while forward Jermaine Lawrence earned HBCUAC Defensive Player of the Week honors following the Knights' 1-1 week.
Hicks delivered back-to-back 30-plus point performances to power SUNO to two victories, including a historic double-overtime win. The freshman erupted for a career-high 37 points on 12-for-25 shooting in a 90–87 double overtime victory over the University of Mobile on Tuesday. With the game hanging in the balance, Hicks drilled a clutch jumper with 1:21 remaining in the second overtime to give the Knights a two-possession lead, then assisted on the game-sealing basket moments later. The win marked SUNO's first victory over Mobile since the program's return in 2022–23.
Hicks followed up with another strong performance on Saturday, pouring in 30 points against Tougaloo to lead the Knights once again. For the week, he totaled 13 assists and seven offensive rebounds, showcasing his all-around impact. With the honors, Hicks secures his ninth and 10th weekly awards of the season and climbs to fifth in the HBCUAC in scoring (15.7 points per game) and fourth in assists (61).
On the defensive end, Lawrence was dominant in the paint, altering shots and controlling the glass. He pulled down 14 rebounds, including 12 defensive boards, and blocked nine shots across two games. Lawrence was a force in the double-overtime win over Mobile, recording 11 rebounds (10 defensive) and six blocks, capped by securing the game-winning rebound in the second overtime. He added three rebounds and three blocks against Tougaloo to close the week.
With his latest performance, Lawrence moves into sixth in the HBCUAC with 21 blocks, continuing to establish himself as one of the conference's premier rim protectors.
The Knights will look to carry the momentum forward as conference play continues, fueled by standout performances on both ends of the floor in West Division contests on Thursday, January 29 against Wiley University (7:30 p.m.) and Saturday, January 31 against Philander Smith University (3 p.m.).
For the team's schedule, visit sunoathletics.com.
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Home Game Tickets & Media
Season tickets are 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.
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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.
