ROCKLIN, Calif. – Following a standout 2025-26 campaign in the PacWest Conference, Jessup University men's basketball has secured two of the league's most prestigious individual honors. Freshman forward Tom Parsons has been named the PacWest Freshman of the Year, while senior guard Andre Norris has been crowned the PacWest Defender of the Year.

The duo was instrumental in leading the Warriors to a 15-13 overall record (12-10 PacWest), helping the program establish itself as a formidable force in the conference.

Tom Parsons: PacWest Freshman of the Year

A native of Werris Creek, Australia, Parsons made an immediate impact in his debut season. Appearing in all 28 games, the 6-foot-7 forward showcased a level of efficiency and maturity rarely seen in first-year players. Parsons finished the season as one of the Warriors' most reliable scoring threats, averaging 11.5 points per game while shooting a stellar 50% from the field.

Parsons' versatility was on full display throughout the season, as he combined his interior presence with a developing perimeter game, knocking down 15 three-pointers. He was also a force on the glass, ranking second on the team with 128 total rebounds (4.6 RPG). His best achievements included a season-high scoring efficiency and a critical role in the Warriors' late-season push, where he averaged double figures as a primary option off the bench and as a spot starter.

Head Coach Mark Darnall praised Norris's accomplishment, "Andre is one of the best defenders I ever coached. He has amazing instincts on and off the ball. He drew the best player every night and is relentless with the effort he plays with. He was top-5 in the country in steals, led the conference in steals by more than 20 total steals, and was one of the top rebounders in the conference in the guard position. Home run pick by the coaches in this league." 

Andre Norris: PacWest Defender of the Year

Senior Andre Norris solidified his reputation as one of the premier "lockdown" players in the nation. The Fort Worth, Texas native started all 28 games and was the heartbeat of the Jessup defense. Norris' statistical headline for the season was an astonishing 80 steals, averaging 2.86 steals per game, a mark that consistently ranked him among the leaders in NCAA Division II.

Beyond his defensive prowess, Norris was the team's second-leading scorer, averaging 12.9 points per game. He was a model of consistency at the charity stripe, shooting 81% from the free-throw line, and led the team in rebounding with 158 boards (5.6 RPG). His ability to disrupt passing lanes and guard multiple positions allowed Jessup to maintain one of the most aggressive defensive schemes in the PacWest.

Head Coach Darnall was proud to see his freshman receive this recognition, "It is hard to contribute as a freshman and Tom Parsons had an immediate impact on our program. He was a key threat for us all season. He led the freshmen in the conference in scoring and rebounding and had really good shooting splits. This is a well deserved honor for Tom and we are excited about his development for the future."

Jessup men's basketball season has concluded their season but the program is preparing for the 2026-27 campaign. Stay tuned for updates and releases of upcoming schedules and program news.