This story was originally published by the White River Valley Herald on December 04, 2025.
For the first time in school history, the Vermont State University–Randolph Knights men’s basketball team has risen to number one in the nation in the United States Collegiate Athletic Association (USCAA) national poll, marking a major milestone for the program, the university, and the surrounding community.
The Knights’ historic recognition comes after a red-hot start to the season, where they opened 7-0 and captured the Vermont State Tip-Off Tournament. The run included victories over two NCAA Division III opponents— VTSU Johnson and Keystone College (Pa.)—showcasing the strength and depth of this year’s roster.
Now sitting at 8-2 following narrow losses to Fisher and Albany, the Knights quickly bounced back with an impressive road win at Great Bay to steady their momentum heading into conference play.
Experienced Core
This year’s team returns four of five starters from last season’s national Elite Eight squad, which famously upset defending national-champion Penn State Wilkes-Barre. That experience has proven invaluable, giving the Knights a veteran core capable of handling high expectations.
Leading the charge is Jaylon Calvin, the 2024 USCAA National Player of the Year and a two-time Yankee Conference Player of the Year. Calvin is off to another dominant start, averaging 22 points, 7 rebounds, and 7 assists per game.
“I think it’s really cool to be recognized as the number-one team,” Calvin said. “Our goal is bigger though, so there’s a lot of work to do.”
First for the Program, Community
Head Coach Jamal Hughes, a former Knights standout himself, emphasized what this achievement means beyond the locker room.
“It’s been so many great things that have happened in this basketball program, and this group can say they were the first to be recognized as number one nationally within the USCAA,” Hughes said. “It’s not easy, and I think it’s great recognition for Vermont State University, the town of Randolph, and the White River
Valley community. Hopefully we can continue to get the support.”
While the milestone is historic, the Knights remain focused on the long-term mission.
“The goal is to be number one at the end of March,” Hughes said. “But this is special. This is cool.”
As the Knights continue their chase for a national championship, the excitement around Randolph is building—and the community now has a top-ranked team to rally behind.