The New Era Of Rams Basketball: 5 Crucial Things To Know About Winston-Salem State Men's Team Under Coach Corey Thompson

The Winston-Salem State University (WSSU) Men's Basketball program is navigating a pivotal transition phase, marked by the return of a legendary alum to the coaching helm and the challenges of a demanding 2024-2025 season. As of December 17, 2025, the Rams are fighting to find their footing in the Central Intercollegiate Athletic Association (CIAA), aiming to recapture the glory of their recent championship win while building a new foundation under a familiar face. This deep dive uncovers the key changes, the current state of the team, and the historical pillars that define one of HBCU basketball’s most storied programs.

The energy surrounding the C.E. Gaines Center is palpable, driven by the hiring of Corey Thompson, who officially took over as the Rams' tenth head coach in the summer of 2024. Thompson, a former WSSU star player, now faces the task of transforming a struggling squad with a current 5-22 overall record into a perennial CIAA contender, a mission that ties directly into the program’s rich, championship-laden history.

Coach Corey Thompson: A Ramily Legend Returns Home

The most significant and exciting development for the WSSU Rams is the appointment of Corey Thompson as the new Head Men's Basketball Coach. Thompson’s return is not just a coaching hire; it's a homecoming that has energized the 'Ramily' fan base and injected a strong sense of tradition into the program.

• The One Where They Tanked Jokes 15 Shocking New Secrets From The Friends Tv Show Behind The Scenes G9zdh

• Full Name: Corey Thompson
• Role: Head Men's Basketball Coach, Winston-Salem State University
• Hired: July 9, 2024
• Alma Mater: Winston-Salem State University (WSSU)
• Playing Career at WSSU: 1998–2002
• Player Achievements: Led WSSU to an impressive 97-25 overall record during his tenure, secured two CIAA titles, and made four consecutive appearances in the NCAA Division II playoffs.
• Predecessor: Thompson succeeded Cleo Hill Jr.
• Hometown: Lumberton, North Carolina

Thompson’s biography is intrinsically linked to the program’s success. He brings a deep understanding of the CIAA landscape and the unique culture of HBCU basketball, having been a part of WSSU's most dominant era in the late 90s and early 2000s. His immediate focus is shifting the culture and instilling the discipline and winning mentality required to compete at the top of the Central Intercollegiate Athletic Association.

The State of the 2024-2025 Rams: A Challenging Rebuild

The 2024-2025 season has proven to be a demanding start for Coach Thompson and the Rams. As of mid-December 2025, the team has faced significant hurdles, reflected in their current win-loss record. The challenging schedule and the transition to a new coaching system have contributed to a difficult campaign.

The Rams’ overall record stands at 5-22, with a 2-13 mark in CIAA conference play. This record places a clear emphasis on the rebuilding effort required, especially on the defensive end, where the team is currently allowing 73.7 points per game while scoring 65.7 points per game.

• 7 Shocking Things Jessica Capshaw Revealed About Growing Up With Steven Spielberg As Her Stepfather 892ho

Despite the team struggles, several key players have emerged as bright spots, carrying the scoring load and demonstrating potential for the future under Thompson’s leadership. The top contributors for the 2024-2025 campaign include:

• Abou Camara: A primary offensive threat whose scoring has been vital.
• Tyre Boykin: A consistent scorer and playmaker.
• Micah Jones: An important contributor on both ends of the floor.
• Lorenzo Caldwell: A versatile forward providing size and rebounding.

The performance of these players will be crucial as the Rams enter the heart of their CIAA schedule, with the ultimate goal being to secure a better seed for the upcoming CIAA Tournament.

The CIAA Legacy: From 2023 Champions to 2024 Tournament Run

The WSSU Rams have a recent history of success that underscores the high expectations for the program. This championship pedigree is what Coach Thompson is tasked with restoring. The Rams have been a dominant force in the CIAA Tournament in recent years, making them one of the conference’s marquee programs.

• The Unseen Story Jessica Simpsons Battle For Privacy And Body Image In A Digital Age Mlvqa

The 2023 CIAA Championship

In a thrilling run, Winston-Salem State claimed the 2023 CIAA Men's Basketball Championship. They defeated Lincoln University (PA) with a score of 62-57 in the tournament final, securing the title and earning a spot in the NCAA Division II Tournament. This victory solidified the program's status as a top contender and remains the high-water mark for the team in the current decade.

The 2024 CIAA Tournament Performance

Building on their championship momentum, the Rams entered the 2024 CIAA Tournament as the No. 5 seed. They demonstrated resilience by winning their opening-round game, defeating the No. 12 seed Saint Augustine's 65-49. Led by a balanced scoring attack, including a strong performance from Jaylen Alston, the team showed they could compete under pressure, setting a high bar for the current squad to aspire to. While they did not repeat as champions, their consistent presence in the later rounds of the tournament speaks to the program's competitive spirit.

The Unrivaled Legacy of "Big House" Gaines

No discussion of Winston-Salem State basketball is complete without honoring the towering figure of Clarence Edward "Big House" Gaines, Sr. His legacy forms the bedrock of the entire program and provides the ultimate blueprint for success that Thompson and future coaches will follow.

• Tenure: Gaines served WSSU for 47 years as a coach, professor, and Athletic Director.
• NCAA DII Championship: In 1967, Gaines led the Rams to the NCAA College Division (now Division II) National Championship, making WSSU the first historically black college or university (HBCU) to win an NCAA national title.
• Hall of Fame: His unparalleled career earned him induction into multiple halls of fame, including the Naismith Memorial Basketball Hall of Fame.
• Impact: Gaines is credited with putting WSSU and HBCU basketball on the national map, not only through winning but also by developing countless young men.
• Venue: The team plays its home games at the C.E. Gaines Center, named in his honor.

The tradition established by Coach Gaines—a legacy of excellence, community connection, and pioneering achievement—is the standard to which Corey Thompson is now holding his team. The expectations are not just to win, but to uphold the dignity and pioneering spirit of the 'Big House' era.

Winston-Salem State's Place in HBCU Basketball

Winston-Salem State University remains one of the most important institutions in the landscape of HBCU athletics. Their membership in the CIAA, one of the oldest and most respected athletic conferences, ensures that every game is a battle against historic rivals and a showcase of the best of Division II basketball. The Rams’ rivalry games, particularly against local and conference foes, are major cultural events that draw massive crowds and national attention. The current season, though challenging, is a testament to the cyclical nature of college basketball. With an alum like Corey Thompson at the helm, the 'Ramily' is banking on a swift return to championship contention, fueled by their deep history and the unwavering spirit of the Winston-Salem State community.