Austin Peay Triumphs as ASUN Champions

By David Oglesby

Photo / Austin Peay Athletics / Coach Corey Gipson

In a historic moment that reverberated throughout Austin Peay State University, the Governors celebrated winning their first Atlantic Sun Conference (ASUN) championship, marking a significant milestone in the program's basketball history. Their thrilling 65-61 victory over Jacksonville not only secured their 19th championship overall, but also set the stage for their potential participation in the NCAA Tournament, a goal that has long eluded the program.

With a remarkable season record of 21-6 and a dominating 15-1 finish in conference play, the Governors' success was a testament to their grit and determination under head coach Corey Gipson. This championship represents not just a title, but the culmination of hard work and dedication that players and coaches put forth to elevate the program’s stature.

As the Governors gear up for the ASUN Tournament, excitement is high among fans and players alike. However, it's crucial to note that while Austin Peay, as regular-season champions, has set itself up for a strong position, the road to NCAA tournament qualification isn't as straightforward as it seems. Contrary to a common belief, the ASUN regular-season champion does not automatically receive an NCAA tournament bid. The automatic bid is awarded to the team that wins the ASUN Conference Tournament.

This key detail means that the Governors must navigate the tournament successfully to secure their spot in March Madness. If the tournament winner happens to be ineligible for NCAA postseason play—often due to reclassification—the regular-season champion, in this case, Austin Peay, could potentially receive the bid. This was exemplified in 2022 when Bellarmine won the tournament but was ineligible, allowing Jacksonville State, as regular-season champions, to claim the NCAA bid.

Thus, while Austin Peay’s regular-season triumph sets them up as a higher seed in the conference tournament, it is the tournament champion who earns the official automatic qualifier spot for the NCAA Tournament. The stakes are high as the Governors are not only competing for pride but also the chance to shine on a national stage.

Players like Rashaud Marshall and Collin Parker have emerged as key contributors, helping construct a team dynamic that thrives on resilience and unity. Their recent success builds a solid foundation of confidence as they head into the ASUN Tournament. Each game played will be a stepping stone to proving their prowess, not only in the ASUN but potentially in the NCAA Tournament.

As they prepare for the challenges ahead in the ASUN Tournament, Austin Peay is more than just a team with a strong record; they are a squad determined to make history. Fans and players alike eager to see how the Governors will navigate the postseason landscape. Coach Gipson has stated that the support of the everyone on campus and within the Clarksdale community including Fort Campbell is what drives the team.

As Austin Peay embarks on this exhilarating journey through the upcoming ASUN Tournament, they carry with them not just the weight of expectation but also the fervent hopes of their passionate fanbase. The victory as conference champions has ignited a fire within the team—a belief that they can achieve greatness on the national stage. Coach Gipson stresses one game at a time and with each game, they seek to not only prove their worth but to honor the legacy of their program.