A Change of Plans

Earlier this year, Gibson—two-time Offensive and Defensive Player of the Year in the HBCU Athletic Conference—committed to the University of New Orleans (UNO). He had announced his transfer portal entry via Instagram, followed days later by a post revealing his commitment to UNO with two years of eligibility left.

That plan has now changed. On Wednesday afternoon, the Xavier University of Louisiana (XULA) men’s basketball team posted on Instagram that Gibson had committed to their NAIA program. XULA is a cross-town rival of Gibson’s former school, Southern University at New Orleans (SUNO).

Dominance at first HBCU

Gibson made an immediate impact at SUNO during the 2023–2024 season. Despite being a 26-year-old rookie with no prior organized basketball experience, the 6-foot-8 forward dominated the NAIA level.

In his freshman season, he averaged 21 points and 15.8 rebounds per game. He led the nation in total rebounds and set program records for points (579), rebounds (453), and double-doubles (27) in a single season.

Gibson continued his dominant performance into 2024–2025. He logged his 43rd consecutive double-double with 26 points and 20 rebounds against Wilberforce University. He earned multiple conference and national honors and reclaimed his Player of the Year awards on both ends of the court.

The UNO Factor

Master P, a New Orleans icon, became UNO’s President of Basketball Operations in February. Gibson was considered a major pickup for the program.

“As a kid growing up in New Orleans, I can honestly say that basketball changed and saved my life,” Miller said. “At that time, UNO was one of the best programs in the country. It was all about Privateer Nation, and there was so much excitement on the Lakefront. As President of Basketball Operations, I am committed to bringing back that winning tradition to NOLA’s Team.”

HBCU bound again

Instead of suiting up for a Division I team, Gibson will now join a strong XULA squad that finished 20–10 last season and earned a spot in the NAIA Tournament.

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Gibson announced via a post on his Instagram account on Wednesday that he was entering the transfer portal. He followed that with a post on Friday that he had committed to UNO with two years of eligibility remaining.

Gibson made a significant impact on Southern University at New Orleans’ (SUNO) basketball program as a freshman last season. Despite being a 26-year-old with no prior organized basketball experience, the 6-foot-8 forward became a dominant force in the NAIA.

Taking HBCU hoops by storm

In his debut season, Jamal Gibson averaged 21 points and 15.8 rebounds per game, leading the nation in total rebounds and setting multiple program records, including single-season points (579), rebounds (453), and double-doubles (27). Continuing his stellar play into the 2024-2025 season, Gibson maintained his dominance on the court. Notably, he secured his 43rd consecutive double-double with a 26-point, 20-rebound performance against Wilberforce University. His efforts were recognized with multiple conference and national honors. Gibson ended this season reclaiming his POY awards both on offense and defense.

Master P, the renowned New Orleans icon, was appointed President of Basketball Operations for UNO in February.

“As a kid growing up in New Orleans, I can honestly say that basketball changed and saved my life,” Miller stated. “At that time, UNO was one of the best programs in the country. It was all about Privateer Nation, and there was so much excitement on the Lakefront. As President of Basketball Operations, I am committed to bringing back that winning tradition to NOLA’s Team.”

Gibson will join a UNO squad that looks to improve on a dismal 4-27 record this past season.

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Gibson burst onto the scene last season as a 6-8, 26-year-old freshman, immediately establishing himself as one of the most dominant players in NAIA HBCU basketball. He averaged an astonishing 21.5 points and 15.8 rebounds per game, earning widespread recognition and setting the stage for his historic run of double-doubles.

This season, Gibson has built on that incredible debut, averaging 20.2 points and 15.1 rebounds per game. His ability to deliver on both ends of the court has propelled the Knights to a five-game winning streak in conference play. Gibson’s rebounding totals, including a season-high 27 boards against Stillman, highlight his relentless pursuit of the ball, while his efficient scoring—including 70.6% shooting in Friday’s game—keeps defenses on their heels.

Consistency is what sets Gibson apart. Over the past two months, he has recorded at least 10 rebounds and 10 points in every outing, a feat that underscores his ability to rise to the occasion regardless of the opponent. Against some of the toughest competition in HBCU basketball, Gibson’s averages remain steady, proving he is a cornerstone for SUNO’s success.

Friday’s victory also marked another milestone for Gibson, bringing him to 938 career points in just 45 games. With the HBCUAC Crossover on the horizon, he’s poised to hit the 1,000-point mark—a testament to his scoring prowess and efficiency.

HBCU basketball thrives on players like Jamal Gibson, whose consistency and dedication embody the spirit of the game. As SUNO gears up for its next matchup against Rust College, all eyes will remain on Gibson to see if he can extend his record-breaking streak and continue leading the Knights in their quest for conference dominance.

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