In the past four years, six different teams have won a share of the ASUN conference. Two of the last three seasons have seen two teams share the regular-season championship. Last year? Lipscomb and North Alabama tied at the top of the ASUN. We can’t rule out another tie, but we’ve reviewed the rosters and identified a play that you’ll want to consider for the 2025-26 season. Let’s dig into our best bet for the Atlantic Sun Conference.
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2025-26 ASUN Conference Champion Best Bet
North Alabama to win the ASUN Conference
Lipscomb lost just about every key piece from last year’s NCAA tournament team. The Bisons return one starter from last year, but have to replace their entire backcourt. They have an eclectic group, but teams that have been in the same system for a few years tend to do well in the ASUN. Lipscomb doesn’t have a team built to compete for the top of the ASUN this year.
North Alabama also returns only one starter from last year. The difference is that their one returning starter may compete for the ASUN Player of the Year award. They return nine scholarship players from last year. Continuity isn’t an issue with North Alabama. They managed to fill from within, but added depth through the portal.
Corneilous Williams returns to North Alabama. Keeping Williams was huge for the Lions. Williams led the ASUN in rebounding last year, and it’s expected that he’ll take a larger role in the offense this year. He just missed averaging a double-double last year. He should improve upon that this season.
Dallas Howell returns from injury, and the Lions’ senior forward has already emerged as one of the leaders of the team. Howell played only three games last year, but averaged 11.3 points and 2.7 rebounds per game before tearing his ACL. Sophomore Darkuan King also suffered a knee injury last year. Howell is fully healthy this year. He should also get more minutes or earn a starting role this season.
North Alabama also expects Canin Jefferson to take on a bigger role in the back court as a junior this year. Jefferson was stuck behind an experienced trio of guards that has either graduated or transferred out. Sophomore Kevin de Kovachich should pair with Jefferson in the back court. de Kovachich reportedly had a great off-season and will likely play a key role this season.
North Alabama’s bench is a bit deeper in the front court than the back court. The Lions have multiple experienced front-court options to run at teams, but they’ll need to figure out their guard rotation. They may need to feature a couple of freshmen. Braylon Patton is a name to know. Patton has drawn positive reviews for his athleticism. He’s also bulked up a bit before starting his college career. He may earn a rotation spot early in the year,
Given the players that return and the additions, North Alabama should stay at the top of the ASUN conference this season. They’re entering year eight with coach Tony Pujol. He’s built a program capable of competing. The Lions won a share of the regular-season championship last year. This year? They win it outright. Lock up North Alabama to get back to the top of the mountain this year.
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