Buena Vista, VA – Wrapping up their 2024 season, the Southern Virginia men's basketball team celebrated a year marked by significant growth, as they navigated through various challenges with resilience and teamwork.
Under the guidance of First-Year Head Coach Trace Bevell, the team reflected on the journey of the season. Coach Bevell expressed, "Overall, it was a successful season. Despite encountering several close losses, our team consistently showcased determination and effort in every game and practice. Regardless of the outcomes, our players demonstrated significant skill development and a robust work ethic. Although our win-loss record may not fully reflect it, we established a solid foundation for the program and cultivated a positive team culture for the years ahead. It was indeed an honor and privilege to coach such exceptional young men."
Throughout the season, Southern Virginia found its rhythm, propelled by standout players such as First Team All-Conference leader Koa Baker. Baker, who had previously earned Rookie of the Year and First Team All-Conference honors in the 2022-2023 season, continued to excel. He led the conference across various categories, including Field Goals (168), Free Throws (129), Points (491), and Points per game (19.6).
Baker's exceptional performance during the season resulted in record-breaking achievements, notably securing the top spot in school history for points per game in a season with 19.6 and free throws made in a season with 129. Additionally, he ranks second all-time in total points scored in a single season with 491.
DJ Green immediately made his presence felt at Southern Virginia, not only commanding the most minutes per game in the conference but also showcasing his defensive prowess with a team-leading 30 steals for the season. His offensive skills earned him a respectable fourth place in the conference for points per game, averaging 14.7.
Meanwhile, Tyler Kartchner displayed significant growth in his junior season as the team's starting center. Averaging 10.8 points and 5.5 rebounds per game, he boasted an impressive 57.5% shooting efficiency from the floor.
Coach Bevell commended both DJ Green and Tyler Kartchner for their remarkable improvement and contributions throughout the season. He highlighted Tyler's substantial progress from the previous season and DJ's seamless transition into the competitive environment. Looking ahead, Coach Bevell emphasized their importance for the team's future, relying on their leadership and experience in the upcoming season.
The Knights honored senior forward Malakai Olson for his outstanding defensive efforts, tallying 21 blocks and a career-high seven rebounds per game. Additionally, Jake Wilson received recognition for his exemplary sportsmanship, earning All-Sportsmanship Team Honors for the second consecutive year.
Coach Bevell expressed gratitude for Olson and Wilson's leadership and emphasized their crucial roles in establishing the team's culture amid coaching changes. Their departure will be felt, but their legacy will endure as a testament to the program's values.
Coach Bevell expressed, "It will be difficult to lose both Malakai Olson and Jake Wilson. They were the heart and soul of this year's team and played vital roles in establishing the culture we aim for here at Southern Virginia University. Their leadership skills will be sorely missed. Both players have weathered coaching changes and consistently adapted and succeeded in practice."
Looking towards the future, the Knights remain optimistic. Coach Bevell emphasized, "They've helped set the tone for what is expected in our program. Nearly every player who took the court contributed positively, both on and off the basketball court. We have a solid core of returning players who understand our expectations and will serve as mentors to the new recruits joining us next year."
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