Philander Smith University end their drought in the GCAC Conference Tournament, clinching their first championship victory since 2013. In a high-stakes showdown against Dillard University on March 3, 2024, the Panthers emerged triumphant with a resounding final score of 85-67, captivating the audience at Birthright Alumni Hall with their electrifying performance in front of 532 fans.
Despite a valiant effort from Dillard, who battled fiercely throughout the contest, they faced an uphill struggle from the outset. A sluggish start plagued the Bleu Devils in the first half, trailing by a daunting 12-point margin at halftime. Although they attempted a spirited comeback in the second half, the relentless pressure exerted by the formidable Philander Smith squad proved insurmountable.
Philander Smith showcased their trademark prowess on both ends of the court, delivering a stellar offensive exhibition while exhibiting unwavering defensive resolve. Leading the charge for the Panthers was Derrick Woods (6'6''-F-1997), whose commanding presence saw him notch an impressive 21 points, shooting an efficient 8-15 from the field and sinking three crucial three-pointers. Accompanying Woods in the spotlight was Christione Rufus (6'1''-G), whose stellar performance included 11 points coupled with an impressive 10 assists, orchestrating the offense with finesse and precision.
With their potent blend of offensive firepower and defensive tenacity, Philander Smith University left no doubt as to their supremacy on the hardwood, sealing yet another championship triumph in the illustrious history of the GCAC Conference Tournament. For the Panthers, this victory marks a triumphant return to glory after experiencing heartbreak in the tournament finals in 2022 and 2023, underscoring their unwavering commitment to excellence and their indomitable spirit as they continue to etch their legacy in the annals of collegiate basketball.

Courtesy of philanderathletics.com

GCAC Final: Philander Smith - Dillard 85-67

GCAC Semifinals:
Philander Smith - Talladega 64-43
Fisk - Dillard 54-72

GCAC Quarterfinals:
Tougaloo - Dillard 77-95
Philander Smith - SUNO 86-64
Talladega - Rust 67-60
Fisk - Wiley 65-56

GCAC 1/8 Finals:
SUNO - Oakwood 96-87
Dillard - Virgin Islands 66-61

Player of the Year: Jamal Gibson (6'8''-F) of SUNO
Defensive Player of the Year: Jamal Gibson (6'8''-F) of SUNO
Freshman of the Year: Jamal Gibson (6'8''-F) of SUNO
Newcomer of the Year: Keondre Montgomery (6'7''-F/C) of Tougaloo
Coach of the Year: Eric Strothers of Tougaloo

All-GCAC First Team 2024

Gibson

Montgomery

Lockett

Reece

Cargo

First Team
Jamal Gibson (6'8''-F) of SUNO
Keondre Montgomery (6'7''-F/C) of Tougaloo
Jayden Lockett (6'3''-PG) of Fisk
Raymond Reece of Philander Smith
Tory Cargo (6'4''-G) of Dillard

All-GCAC Second Team 2024

Johnson

Patterson

Rufus

Thompson

Smith

Second Team
Delor Johnson (6'4''-PG) of Wiley
Antonio Patterson (6'6''-F) of Tougaloo
Christione Rufus (6'1''-G) of Philander Smith
Tyon Thompson (6'5''-SG) of Fisk
Maurice Smith (6'6''-F) of UVI

GCAC All-Defensive Team 2024

Gibson

Lockett

Bates

Reece

Crawford

All-Defensive Team
Jamal Gibson (6'8''-F) of SUNO
Jayden Lockett (6'3''-PG) of Fisk
Jalen Bates (6'2''-PG) of Wiley
Raymond Reece of Philander Smith
Tyrus Crawford (6'7''-F) of Dillard