The 2024-25 American University men’s basketball team could be the one to make history. This season marks 11 years since their last NCAA Tournament appearance — can they break through and make it back?
The Eagles are embracing a season defined by growth, leadership and relentless determination. With a close-knit roster blending veteran experience and emerging talent and a coaching staff committed to development, the team has positioned itself as a legitimate contender in the Patriot League Tournament.
American has established itself as one of the toughest teams in the Patriot League, boasting an impressive seven-game win streak this season and securing crucial victories against Harvard, the University of Albany and Colgate. As of Feb. 28, AU holds an overall record of 19-12 and a dominant 13-5 conference record. The Eagles are at the top of the Patriot League standings, tied with Bucknell for the No. 1 seed. American University also holds the coveted home-court advantage for their Patriot League Quarterfinal, setting the stage for a high-stakes postseason run.
For American, history isn’t a burden — it’s a motivator.
“Amongst the team, we know that it’s a feasible goal,” graduate student guard Lincoln Ball said. “We try to be present and focus on one game at a time, but we also understand that we have what it takes to be a championship team.”
With players in the final stretch of their collegiate careers, urgency fuels their ambition.
“A lot of us are closing out our basketball careers and understand this is the last time we’ll be playing with some of our best friends, some of our brothers,” Ball said. “We’ve put ourselves in a position where we have a chance to win a championship, and if you have that opportunity, why not go and grab it?”
Lincoln Ball has been a key force for the Eagles this season, delivering consistent and high-quality performances. Starting in all 31 games, he showcased his leadership with a dramatic buzzer-beater against Lehigh, securing a thrilling 68-67 victory for the Eagles. The graduate student also recorded a career-high 15 points this season, further proving why he is a game-changer and an aggressive force for the team.
A crucial component of the team’s success has been their collective growth — both on and off the court.
“We’ve seen such a big jump — not just talent-wise from our players, but also in our coaching staff,” Ball said. “They’re constantly evolving and growing and getting better, just like we are as players.”
That connection extends to head coach Duane Simpkins, whose leadership has been instrumental in transforming the team. In his first season, Simpkins led the Eagles to a 16-16 overall record, including a tie for second place in the Patriot League, despite several key injuries during the second half of the season.
“There’s no question about his care and love for every one of us. He’s just such a great people person,” Ball said. “You never question coach Simpkins’ connection, intensity and desire for us to succeed. He’s always in your corner, whether it’s tough love or praise.”
Every season comes with challenges, and for the Eagles, their grueling non-conference schedule tested them early.
“Our non-conference schedule was kind of brutal, with a lot of traveling, but it set us up to get used to playing on the road,” Ball said. “That experience gave us a boost heading into conference play.”
One defining moment came against Colgate and changed everything for team morale.
“Last year, we played Colgate under identical circumstances — both teams with strong records — but they beat us,” Ball said about this season’s 81-77 win against the defending Patriot League champions. “This year, we took care of business at home. Since then, we’ve been phenomenal, and I think that game helped us get over the hump early in conference play."
Beyond the veterans, the rise of younger players has been a key factor in the team’s success. Sophomore guard Greg Jones has been a sensation, stepping up in crucial moments. The Sophomore has made it to the Patriot League All-Defensive team, showing why teams should keep an eye on him.
“It’s been satisfying to see a big jump from freshman to sophomore year, and I’m very proud of myself for making this leap,” Jones said. “I didn’t have the freshman year I wanted, but I’m glad to see that I’m learning the game better, playing better, and helping the team more.”
Jones credits his improvement to consistency and experience.
His numbers tell the story of his growth. His scoring average went from 2.9 points per game last season to 10.5 this year.
“Last year, I didn’t want the ball at all,” Jones admitted. “But this year is a lot different from a confidence standpoint. It’s like, I need to be making a play for my teammates.”
But the Eagles’ success isn’t just about any one player. Senior guard Elijah Stephens, an All-Patriot League Third team honoree, has been a floor general, orchestrating the team’s offense and bringing defensive intensity. Averaging 11 points per game while leading the team with 3.7 assists per contest, Stephens’ court vision has elevated the Eagles’ high-flying attack.
Graduate student forward Matt Rogers has been a dominant force as well, leading the team with 17.1 points per game while shooting an efficient 55.2 percent from the field. His inside presence and leadership have been crucial. The Graduate Student has also earned the All-Patriot League First Team honor due to his performance this season.
With a potent mix of veteran leadership and young talent, the Eagles are no longer just chasing history — they’re shaping it. Their journey isn’t over, but with their current trajectory, they have a real shot at turning their decade-long NCAA Tournament dream into reality.
The Eagles have been crowned co-champions of the Patriot League regular season and are now set to play a quarterfinal on their home court on March 6. Their opponent will be determined on March 4 when Lafayette and Holy Cross face off in the Patriot League first round.
This article was edited by Jack Stashower, Penelope Jennings and Abigail Turner. Copy editing done by Luna Jinks, Hannah Langenfeld and Olivia Citarella.
