TUSKEGEE, Ala. ^__ The Tuskegee Golden Tigers men's basketball team is set to tip off the 2024-25 season with high expectations, fueled by a strong returning core and a talented group of newcomers.
 
Head coach Benjy Taylor, who has built a culture of hard work and resilience, will lead a team that returns 11 players from last year's squad while also welcoming four new faces to enhance their depth and versatility.
 
The Golden Tigers open the season on Friday, November 8, in Jackson, Tennessee, against Christian Brothers University as part of the SIAC Gulf South Crossover Challenge. They will then face Union on Saturday, November 9, with both games held at J F Lane Gym.

ABOUT TUSKEGEE (0-0, 0-0 SIAC)
The returning core features standout players like All-SIAC forward Kusamae Draper, along with the senior backcourt of D'Anthony Pennington and Kevin Sesberry, who are expected to be pivotal to Tuskegee's success.

Last season, Draper, was one of the program's top players, averaging 13.7 points, 6.0 rebounds and 0.5 blocks per game, anchoring Tuskegee's interior attack. His physical presence and rebounding ability give the Golden Tigers an edge on both ends of the floor, earning him a spot on the All-SIAC Second Team. The forward also started all 28 games and shot an efficient 50.5% from the field, accumulating 141 field goals on 279 attempts.
 
Pennington established himself as the team's leading scorer and a clutch shooter, averaging 15.8 points per game while shooting an impressive 38% from three-point range. His ability to score in various ways and his leadership on and off the court make him a key offensive weapon for the Golden Tigers.
 
The Golden Tigers also bring back experienced players such as Kevin Sesberry, a versatile guard who averaged 10.3 points and 3.5 rebounds per game, along with guard depth in Chip Culpepper, Bryce Cummings, Ostin Taylor, Julian Watson, and Christopher Whitmore Jr.
 
The front court also brings back a mix of depth including senior Evan Howell, along with Dylan Cambridge and Tyshawn Boyce, who round out a seasoned roster that understands what it takes to compete at a high level in the SIAC.
 
The Golden Tigers are excited to add four new players to their lineup, each of whom brings a unique skill set. Guards Michael Hodges Jr. and Rodney Walker Jr. will provide more playmaking and shooting in the backcourt, while forwards Trey Crawford and Noah Goines will help with the inside-out game and physicality. These newcomers are expected to make an immediate impact and provide coach Taylor with additional options on both ends of the floor.

Tuskegee's season opener against Christian Brothers and the subsequent game against Union in the SIAC Gulf South Crossover Challenge will serve as early tests for the Golden Tigers.
 
Both matchups will be played at J F Lane Gym and will give the coaching staff a chance to assess how well the team's chemistry has developed and how the newcomers integrate with the returning core. These games are critical for setting the tone for the season, as the Golden Tigers aim to make a strong statement early on.
 
With a balanced roster that features scoring depth, defensive intensity, and veteran leadership, the Golden Tigers have the pieces needed to contend in the SIAC.
 
The 2024-25 season promises to be an exciting one for Tuskegee men's basketball, as they look to build on last year's performance and make a strong push in conference play. Fans can look forward to high-energy games, thrilling matchups, and a team that is determined to leave its mark on the conference.
 
How to Follow the Golden Tigers
For complete information on Tuskegee Golden Tigers Men's Basketball, visit GoldenTigerSports.com and follow the team's social media channels on Twitter, Instagram and  Facebook.