5 Key Reasons Why Faulkner University Men's Basketball Is A Must-Watch In The 2024-2025 Season
The Faulkner University Men's Basketball team is once again proving they are a powerhouse in the NAIA, entering the holiday season with a compelling record that solidifies their status as a contender. As of today, December 25, 2025, the Eagles hold a strong 9-4 overall record, including an impressive 3-1 start in the highly competitive Southern States Athletic Conference (SSAC) schedule. This early-season success under veteran Head Coach Scott Sanderson has positioned the team for a deep run into the SSAC Tournament and a potential return to the NAIA National Championship tournament, building on a rich history of excellence in Montgomery, Alabama.
The Eagles' current performance is a testament to their balanced attack and strong defensive mentality, key hallmarks of the program's identity. They currently sit third in the SSAC West standings, trailing only Loyola University and the University of Mobile, setting the stage for crucial conference battles in the new year. Fans and rivals alike are keenly watching to see if this dynamic squad, featuring standout players like Gideon Harris and Jordyn Turner-Durley, can translate their early momentum into a championship-caliber season.
Faulkner University Men's Basketball 2024-2025 Roster & Coaching Staff
The foundation of Faulkner's consistent success lies in its blend of experienced veterans and talented newcomers, all operating within a disciplined system established by the coaching staff. Head Coach Scott Sanderson, a figure synonymous with Faulkner basketball, leads the program, having successfully steered the Eagles for over a decade.
Coaching and Support Staff
- Head Coach: Scott Sanderson
- Tenure: Completed his 11th season in Spring 2025, holding a remarkable 235-105 career record at Faulkner.
- Top Assistant Coach: Drew Wilson, who joined the staff after serving as an associate head coach at Snead State Community College.
Key Roster Entities (2024-2025 Season)
The current roster features a number of key athletes who are driving the team's statistical success and conference play dominance. While the full roster provides depth, the following players are central to the Eagles' rotation:
- Gideon Harris: Guard (G), 6'1", 190 lbs, Junior. A key playmaker in the backcourt.
- Jordyn Turner-Durley: Guard (G), 6'3", 185 lbs, Junior. Provides size and versatility at the guard position.
- KJ Rogers: A top player noted for his overall contribution to the team's success.
- Kamal Green II: Another pivotal figure, often cited as one of the team's top contributors.
- Micah Thomas: A vital member of the team, listed on the official roster as a core player.
- Tanner Vogel: Mentioned among the top players for the current season.
- Gabriel Rivera: An important entity providing depth and offensive output.
The Eagles' Dominance in the SSAC West Division
Faulkner University competes within the Southern States Athletic Conference (SSAC), one of the most respected conferences in the NAIA. The 2024-2025 season has seen the Eagles immediately establish themselves as a top-tier team, particularly within the SSAC West Division.
With a 3-1 conference record, Faulkner is strategically positioned in third place, which is crucial for securing a favorable seed in the SSAC Tournament. Their overall 9-4 record reflects a challenging non-conference schedule designed to prepare them for the rigors of divisional play. Early season matchups, including the annual *Jimmy Faulkner Classic*, have allowed the coaching staff to fine-tune rotations and defensive schemes against quality opponents like the University of Mobile and Oakwood University.
Key Performance Indicators (KPIs)
The Eagles' statistical profile reveals a team that excels on the defensive end, demonstrating strong interior presence and shot-blocking ability. Their team stats show an average of 3.1 blocks per game, a metric that highlights their defensive intensity and rim protection. This focus on defense is a major factor in their ability to close out tight conference games and maintain a high overall winning percentage of .667.
Notable early-season victories, such as the 84-71 win against Paine College, underscore the team's offensive potential when their key players are firing on all cylinders. The balance between a potent offense and a stifling defense is what makes Faulkner a dangerous opponent for any team in the SSAC, including rivals like Stillman College and Blue Mountain University. The second half of the season will be defined by their performance against the top teams in the SSAC West, particularly the head-to-head battles with Loyola University and the University of Mobile, which will directly impact their conference standing.
A Legacy of Excellence: The Scott Sanderson Era and the 2001 Championship
No discussion of Faulkner Men's Basketball is complete without acknowledging the profound impact of Head Coach Scott Sanderson. His tenure is not merely measured by a high volume of wins, but by the program's indelible mark on NAIA history.
The crowning achievement of the program's history came in 2001 when Sanderson led the team to the University's first-ever NAIA national championship in any sport. This monumental victory cemented Faulkner's place on the national stage and earned Sanderson numerous national coach of the year honors. This championship pedigree is a significant recruiting tool and a source of motivation for the current generation of Eagles players.
Building Topical Authority: The Faulkner Tradition
The program's consistent presence in the national rankings and its ability to attract high-caliber talent reflects the established *Faulkner Tradition*. This tradition is characterized by:
- Sustained Success: A coaching staff that produces winning seasons year after year, demonstrated by Sanderson's impressive 235-105 record.
- National Recognition: Regular appearances in the NAIA National Tournament and the prestige associated with the 2001 title.
- Competitive Schedule: Participation in events like the *Jimmy Faulkner Classic* and challenging non-conference matchups to ensure the team is tournament-ready.
The current 2024-2025 team is carrying this torch, striving to add another chapter to the program's storied history. The veteran leadership, combined with the foundational principles instilled by Coach Sanderson, makes the Eagles a perennial threat in the SSAC and beyond.
Outlook: The Road Ahead for the 2024-2025 Season
As the Faulkner Eagles transition into the heart of their conference schedule, the focus will intensify on securing a top seed in the SSAC Tournament. Their current 9-4 overall record and 3-1 conference standing provide an excellent platform, but the road is long and filled with tough matchups against rivals like Freed-Hardeman University and Cumberland University.
The performance of key players like Gideon Harris and Jordyn Turner-Durley will be paramount, particularly in high-stakes road games where the team has historically faced challenges. If the Eagles can maintain their defensive intensity—specifically their strong blocks per game—and see consistent scoring from their core rotation, they have all the components needed to not only challenge for the SSAC title but also to make a significant impact in the NAIA national landscape. The rest of the 2024-2025 season promises to be an exciting showcase of Faulkner basketball's enduring excellence.
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