5 Shocking Truths About The Alcorn State Braves Men's Basketball Program Under New Leadership

The Alcorn State Braves men's basketball program is currently navigating one of its most significant transitions in recent history, as of December 10, 2025. Following a period of solid conference play, the team has welcomed a new era under a veteran coach, signaling a fresh start and renewed ambitions in the Southwestern Athletic Conference (SWAC). The 2024-2025 season is proving to be a true test of grit and adaptation, with the team facing a challenging non-conference schedule designed to prepare them for the rigors of SWAC play.

This deep dive explores the shocking truths and key factors defining the Braves' trajectory this season, from the new coaching philosophy to the players expected to step up and lead the charge. The Alcorn State University community is buzzing with anticipation to see how this new-look team will honor the program's rich legacy.

The New Era: Head Coach Jake Morton's Complete Profile

The biggest story surrounding the Alcorn State Braves is the hiring of Jake Morton as the 15th Head Men's Basketball Coach. His appointment marks a pivotal moment for the program, bringing a wealth of experience and a fresh perspective to Lorman, Mississippi. Morton was officially introduced on April 23, 2025, ushering in a new chapter for the university's basketball program.

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Jake Morton Biography and Career Highlights

• Full Name: Jake Morton
• Born: April 21, 1969
• Current Position: Head Men's Basketball Coach, Alcorn State University
• Appointment Date: April 23, 2025
• Coaching Philosophy: Known for building disciplined teams and a focus on player development.
• Previous Experience: Morton brings a background steeped in college basketball, with experience at various levels that prepared him for this Head Coach role in NCAA Division I.
• Immediate Impact: The Braves secured their first victory under Coach Morton with an 81-74 win over Indiana State, a crucial early-season morale booster.

Morton takes over a program that has seen recent success in the SWAC Regular Season under previous leadership, setting a high bar for conference performance. His challenge is to maintain that competitive edge while implementing his own system and recruiting philosophy. The transition period is often turbulent, but the Alcorn State faithful are optimistic about the future under Morton's guidance. The Braves' performance in the 2024-2025 season will be the first true indicator of the program's direction.

The 2024-2025 Roster and Key Player Entities

The current Alcorn State Braves roster features a mix of seasoned veterans and promising newcomers, all adapting to Coach Morton’s system. The team's success will hinge on the emergence of reliable scoring threats and consistent defensive efforts, especially as they enter the demanding SWAC schedule. The non-conference slate has been brutal, with tough road losses to powerhouses like Utah and Utah State, which is standard for mid-major programs but highlights the need for a cohesive unit.

Players to Watch on the Braves Roster

While the team is still searching for a consistent star to lead the charge, several players are expected to be key entities for the 2024-2025 campaign. Their individual performances will dictate the team's standing in the conference. The roster depth is crucial for surviving the grind of the college basketball season.

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• Michael Pajeaud: A senior guard bringing experience and leadership to the backcourt.
• Josh Mitchell: A forward/center who is a vital presence in the paint for rebounding and interior defense.
• Keionte: Another key center whose size and strength will be essential against physical SWAC opponents.
• Jameel Morris & Shane Lancaster: Guards who are expected to contribute significantly to the team's scoring and ball-handling duties.
• Travis Roberts & Nick Woodard: Frontcourt players whose development will provide depth and versatility to the Braves' rotation.

The team’s early struggles, including a loss to Louisiana Tech, show the non-conference challenges. However, the win over Indiana State demonstrated the team's potential when they can execute their game plan and control the pace of the game. For the Braves to succeed, players like Jeremy Ellis, Davian Williams, and Bryson Calamese must consistently contribute off the bench.

The Historical Context: A Legacy of SWAC Dominance

The Alcorn State University men's basketball program is one of the most storied in the Southwestern Athletic Conference (SWAC). Understanding the team’s history is essential for appreciating the pressure and expectation placed on the current squad. The Braves have a tradition of success that the new coaching staff is tasked with upholding.

Braves' All-Time Achievements

The Alcorn State Braves have a rich history of success, particularly in the SWAC. Their historical achievements set a high standard for current and future teams.

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• SWAC Regular Season Championships: 12 Titles
• SWAC Tournament Championships: 6 Titles (including 1979, 1980, 1982, 1983, 1984, 1999, 2002)
• NCAA Tournament Appearances: 7 Appearances (including 1969, 1980, 1982, 1983, 1984, 1999, 2002)

The program’s heyday included a dominant stretch in the late 1970s and early 1980s, often associated with legendary coach Davey Whitney. This history of high-level performance in the SWAC is a powerful motivator for the current players. The goal for Coach Morton is clear: return the Alcorn State Braves to the top of the conference standings and secure another bid to the NCAA Tournament.

The SWAC Outlook: A Conference Reset

The Southwestern Athletic Conference is known for its intense rivalries and unpredictable league play. The 2024-2025 season is shaping up to be another competitive year, and the Braves must quickly find their footing to make a push for the SWAC Tournament. The conference landscape is always shifting, and teams like Southern, Jackson State, and Texas Southern are perennial contenders that Alcorn State must overcome.

The Braves' success in the SWAC will depend heavily on their ability to win road games and defend their home court. The challenging non-conference schedule, featuring matchups against high-major programs, is a deliberate strategy to toughen the team for conference play. While the early overall record may not reflect their potential, the lessons learned against top-tier competition are invaluable. The team must focus on improving their points per game and defensive efficiency before the conference schedule begins in earnest.

The ultimate goal is to secure a top seed in the conference tournament, which offers the automatic bid to the "Big Dance." With a new coach and a roster eager to prove themselves, the Alcorn State Braves are a team that could surprise many in the SWAC this season if they can translate their potential into consistent victories.