A Season of Dual Excellence
The Southern Illinois University men's basketball team has been recognized with the 2025‑26 Team Academic Excellence Award from the National Association of Basketball Coaches, a distinction that underscores the program's commitment to scholarly achievement alongside athletic performance.
To earn the team honor, every member of the roster must maintain a cumulative grade point average of at least 3.0 throughout the academic year, a benchmark that was met by 400 programs nationwide this season.
Honors Court Highlights
Four standout players from Southern Illinois — Caden Hawkins, Damien Mayo Jr., Davion Sykes and Isaiah Stafford — earned placement on the NABC Honors Court, a list that celebrates students who combine a minimum 3.2 GPA with junior, senior or graduate standing.
The Honors Court recognition extends far beyond a single institution, with more than 2,300 athletes across all divisions of college basketball receiving the accolade, reflecting a growing emphasis on integrating academic rigor with competitive sport.
University officials praised the student‑athletes for their dedication both on the hardwood and in the classroom, noting that the awards highlight the institution's broader mission to develop well‑rounded leaders.