Buena Vista, Va. – The Southern Virginia University men's basketball team capped off a record-breaking 2024-2025 season, finishing 19-8, the most wins in the program's NCAA Division III era. The Knights also hosted their first USA South Conference Tournament game, marking a significant milestone since joining the NCAA.
Head Coach Trace Bevell reflected on the team's remarkable journey, saying, "I thought we had an outstanding year. We had a great group of young men who helped change our culture in just one season. They worked hard all preseason, and we were able to reap the benefits of their dedication. We had tremendous leadership on our team, and when you have a player-led team, success follows. This was most definitely a player-led team."
Southern Virginia's well-rounded approach was on display throughout the season, leading the USA South Conference in several key categories:
Coach Bevell emphasized the team's achievements, stating, "We had a lot to be proud of—most wins in a single season in the Division III era, hosting a conference tournament game—but the most important accomplishment was establishing a winning culture. Our goal was to win a conference championship, and while we fell just short, this season will serve as motivation heading into the offseason. We've tasted success, and now the expectations are even higher."
Eli Ballstaedt was at the forefront of the Knights' success, leading the USA South in scoring and earning USA South Player of the Year honors. He also received First Team All-Conference recognition and was a three-time USA South Player of the Week. Ballstaedt's dominance secured his place in the program's record books:
Coach Bevell praised Ballstaedt's leadership, saying, "Eli was incredible from day one. He came in just wanting to play one more year and enjoy the experience, but he gave us so much more. He was a true leader—like having a coach on the floor. He held himself to the highest standard and made sure his teammates did the same. He didn't care about personal accolades, all he wanted to do was win, and that mindset made all the difference."
Junior Tillman Johnson also made a huge impact, earning Second Team All-Conference recognition. Johnson led the USA South in defensive rebounds (141) while ranking second in minutes per game (35.9) and eighth in scoring (13.7 points per game).
"Timmy had a phenomenal year," said Bevell. "He stepped up as a leader on and off the court. We knew he was talented, but he exceeded even our expectations. He'll need to take on an even bigger role next season, and I have no doubt he's up for it."
Team captain DJ Green, alongside fellow captain Tyler Kartchner, played a pivotal role in shaping the team's winning mindset.
Bevell highlighted Green's contributions: "DJ was a leader for us this year. Along with Eli and Tyler, he was one of our team captains. He did everything we asked of him, and I know he'll continue to improve and play a crucial role next season."
Southern Virginia's depth played a key role in their success. Whether it was the defensive tenacity of Christian Goode and Alex Weiland or the impactful minutes from Kade Harrick and Hyrum McConkie, the Knights' roster showed significant development and will be expected to step up as leaders next season.
"We had so many guys improve this year," Bevell said. "Kade and Hyrum stepped up and grew into their roles. Their leadership will be huge for us moving forward."
Bevell also pointed to Jude Ballstaedt and Luc DeVore as players to watch, saying, "They gained valuable experience this year, and they'll be counted on to take another step forward. This entire group now understands what it takes to win, and I have no doubt they'll put in the work this offseason."
With a winning culture firmly established, the Knights have set the foundation for even greater success in the years ahead. Southern Virginia basketball is here to stay.
For the most up-to-date information and details on the team, visit knightathletics.com and follow @knight_hoops on Instagram.
