The Park University men's basketball team has been a force to be reckoned with in the National Association of Intercollegiate Athletics (NAIA) Division I. Based in Parkville, Missouri, the Pirates have been competing at the highest level of collegiate athletics since 1996. With a rich history of success, the team has established itself as a perennial contender in the American Midwest Conference.
A Legacy of Excellence
Park University's men's basketball program has a storied history, with numerous conference championships, tournament appearances, and NAIA Top 25 rankings. The Pirates have consistently produced talented teams, with several players going on to play professionally overseas. The program's commitment to excellence is reflected in its dedicated coaching staff, state-of-the-art facilities, and a strong support system.
Notable Achievements
- 5 American Midwest Conference (AMC) regular-season championships
- 4 AMC Tournament championships
- 10 NAIA National Tournament appearances
- 5 NAIA Top 25 rankings
- 15 All-Americans
- 30 All-Conference selections
Key Players and Coaches
- Head Coach: Jason Kline, a Park University alumnus and former player, has been at the helm of the program since 2011. Under his leadership, the Pirates have won 2 AMC championships and made 3 NAIA National Tournament appearances.
- Top Players: The team has produced several standout players, including:
- Xavielle Brown, a 2-time All-American and 3-time All-Conference selection
- Devonte' Daniels, a 2-time All-Conference selection and NAIA Scholar-Athlete
- Samm Jones, a 1-time All-Conference selection and AMC Newcomer of the Year
Championship Seasons
- 2011-2012: The Pirates won their first AMC regular-season championship, finishing with a 24-7 overall record and a 14-4 conference mark.
- 2014-2015: Park University captured its second AMC regular-season championship, posting a 25-8 overall record and a 15-3 conference record.
- 2017-2018: The Pirates won their third AMC regular-season championship, finishing with a 23-10 overall record and a 13-5 conference record.
Statistical Highlights
- Points per Game: The Pirates have averaged over 80 points per game in 5 of the last 10 seasons.
- Three-Point Shooting: Park University has led the AMC in three-point shooting percentage 3 times in the last 5 seasons.
- Rebounding Margin: The Pirates have outrebounded their opponents by an average of 5.5 rebounds per game over the last 5 seasons.
Facilities and Support
- Breckon Sports Center: The Pirates play their home games at the Breckon Sports Center, a state-of-the-art facility with a seating capacity of over 1,500.
- Training Facilities: The team has access to top-notch training facilities, including a weight room, athletic training room, and sports medicine center.
- Support Staff: The program is supported by a dedicated coaching staff, athletic trainers, and sports information directors.
Community Involvement
- Youth Clinics: The Pirates host annual youth basketball clinics, providing instruction and mentorship to local youngsters.
- Charity Games: The team participates in charity games and events, raising funds and awareness for various causes.
- Fan Engagement: Park University men's basketball fans are known for their enthusiasm and dedication, creating an electric atmosphere at home games.
Conclusion
The Park University men's basketball team has established itself as a powerhouse in the NAIA Division I. With a rich history of success, talented players and coaches, and a commitment to excellence, the Pirates continue to be a force to be reckoned with in the American Midwest Conference.
Gallery of Park University Men's Basketball Team
FAQs
What is the Park University men's basketball team's conference affiliation?
+The Park University men's basketball team is a member of the American Midwest Conference (AMC) in the National Association of Intercollegiate Athletics (NAIA) Division I.
Who is the head coach of the Park University men's basketball team?
+The head coach of the Park University men's basketball team is Jason Kline, a Park University alumnus and former player.
What is the name of the Park University men's basketball team's home arena?
+The Park University men's basketball team plays its home games at the Breckon Sports Center.