Lipscomb closed out its non-conference schedule with a home win against Division III Ashbury. The Bisons now head into ASUN play with an 8-5 record — and something they didn’t have last year: a healthy squad.
KenPom projects Lipscomb to dominate the conference, and for good reason. While Lipscomb was the preseason favorite to win the ASUN, other contenders have stumbled. Austin Peay (projected second) and Eastern Kentucky (fourth) ended their non-conference schedules with records below .500.
North Alabama is the only ASUN team performing at a similar level to Lipscomb. The Lions are also 8-5 heading into the new year and are led by standout junior guard and leading scorer Jacari Lane.
This Lipscomb team is peaking at the right time. The Bisons faced a challenging non-conference slate, including matchups against Arkansas, Western Kentucky and Kentucky. This tough schedule has prepared them well for the grind of conference play.
On the personnel front, Jacob Ognacevic’s return from injury is a significant boost. Keeping the trio of Will Pruitt, Joe Anderson and Dylan Faulkner has been crucial. And several newcomers have also made an impact. Jacksonville transfer Gyasi Powell has been a spark on both ends of the court, while Rockhurst transfer Miles White has consistently contributed from the bench, knocking down triples.
Two additional transfers, Charlie Williams (William & Mary) and Kellan Boylan (Air Force), are also finding their rhythm as the season progresses.
With this combination of talent and momentum, Lipscomb’s first NCAA Tournament appearance since 2018 feels within reach.
Catch the ASUN opener on ESPN+ this Thursday, when Lipscomb faces Jacksonville at 7 p.m. ET The Dolphins feature preseason ASUN Player of the Year Robert McCray V.
