Claflin University, a historically black university located in Orangeburg, South Carolina, has a rich athletic history, and its basketball program is no exception. Here are five facts about Claflin University basketball that you might find interesting:
Claflin University's basketball team, known as the Panthers, competes in the National Collegiate Athletic Association (NCAA) Division II and is a member of the Central Intercollegiate Athletic Association (CIAA). The CIAA is the oldest African American athletic conference in the United States, founded in 1912. Claflin University joined the CIAA in 2005, and since then, the Panthers have become a formidable force in the conference.
Early Success
The Claflin University basketball program has experienced success over the years, with several notable achievements. In 2008, the Panthers won the CIAA Southern Division championship, marking the team's first division title since joining the conference. Claflin University has also appeared in the NCAA Division II Tournament several times, including in 2010 and 2013.
The Tisdale Era
One of the most successful periods in Claflin University basketball history came under the leadership of Coach Dwon Clifton, who took the reins in 2005. During his tenure, the Panthers won several conference championships and made appearances in the NCAA Tournament. Clifton's teams were known for their tenacious defense and high-powered offense, which earned him recognition as one of the top coaches in the CIAA.
Claflin University's basketball team has produced several talented players who have gone on to achieve great things in their careers. One notable example is Eric Tisdale, a dominant center who played for the Panthers from 2005 to 2009. Tisdale was a three-time CIAA Player of the Year and was named to the NCAA Division II All-American team in 2009. He later played professionally overseas and in the NBA G-League.
Current State of the Program
Today, the Claflin University basketball program continues to thrive under the leadership of Coach Ricky Jackson, who took over as head coach in 2019. Jackson has brought a new level of energy and enthusiasm to the program, and the Panthers have shown promise in recent seasons. With a strong recruiting class and a talented returning core, Claflin University basketball is poised to make some noise in the CIAA and NCAA Division II in the years to come.
Gallery of Claflin University Basketball
Frequently Asked Questions
What division does Claflin University basketball compete in?
+Claflin University basketball competes in the National Collegiate Athletic Association (NCAA) Division II and is a member of the Central Intercollegiate Athletic Association (CIAA).
Who is the current head coach of Claflin University basketball?
+The current head coach of Claflin University basketball is Ricky Jackson, who took over as head coach in 2019.
What is the name of Claflin University's basketball arena?
+Claflin University's basketball arena is the Tullis Arena, which is located on the university's campus in Orangeburg, South Carolina.