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Tulane gets a promotion to the top of the competitive American Conference

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  Published in Sports and Competition on Thursday, October 30th 2025 at 7:43 GMT by NOLA.com
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Tulane Ascends to the Top of the American Athletic Conference

The 2024–25 season has delivered an unexpected renaissance for Tulane University’s men’s basketball program, culminating in a historic surge to the apex of the American Athletic Conference (AAC). In a decisive victory against the Cincinnati Bearcats on March 6, 2024, the Blue Demons posted a 78–65 win that not only snapped a six-game losing streak but also vaulted them into first place with a conference record of 10–4. This marks the highest AAC finish for Tulane in nearly a decade and sets the stage for a potential berth in the NCAA Tournament.

Game Overview and Key Moments

The home opener at the Devlin Fieldhouse was a masterclass in disciplined play and defensive intensity. Tulane’s frontcourt, anchored by senior forward Jordan Davis, applied relentless pressure on Cincinnati’s perimeter shooters, limiting the Bearcats to a league‑worst 32% shooting from beyond the arc. The Blue Demons’ defense forced 18 turnovers, two of which converted into fast‑break points that helped to create a double‑digit lead by the end of the first quarter.

Offensively, the Blue Demons ran a balanced attack that showcased the depth of their roster. Junior guard Jalen Ricks led the team with 24 points, a streak of 12 consecutive shots that included a clutch three in the final minute. Davis added 18 points and 10 rebounds, cementing his status as the program’s defensive cornerstone. Sophomore guard Chris Thomas, returning from a brief injury, contributed 11 points and a pivotal three‑pointer to keep the momentum alive.

The game’s defining moment arrived in the third quarter when Tulane’s bench erupted. The team’s depth became a narrative thread, as four different players each recorded double‑digit scoring. This surge underscored the coaching staff’s strategic rotations and their confidence in the younger talent on the roster.

Strategic Coaching Adjustments

Head Coach Eric Konkol, who has been at the helm since 2018, orchestrated a tactical shift that emphasized a zone defense combined with aggressive pick‑and‑roll play. “We focused on controlling the tempo and limiting Cincinnati’s back‑door cuts,” Konkol told reporters in the post‑game press conference. “The players executed on both ends of the floor, which is why we are seeing this kind of performance.” His decision to keep Davis at the helm, even after the team had found rhythm, demonstrates a commitment to consistency in leadership roles.

Konkol’s strategy was informed by a comprehensive review of Cincinnati’s offensive tendencies. By deploying a 2–3 zone that closed off the key mid‑range zones, Tulane forced the Bearcats into lower‑percentage perimeter shots. The subsequent adjustment to switch on screens ensured that Cincinnati’s star guard was always adequately covered.

Impact on AAC Standings

The 10–4 record propels Tulane to the top of the AAC standings, edging out rivals such as Cincinnati (9–5) and Houston (8–6). The Blue Demons’ position in first place is not merely symbolic; it places them in a favorable spot entering the AAC tournament. A strong finish could secure the automatic bid that is reserved for the conference tournament champion. If Tulane were to win the tournament, it would mark the school’s first NCAA Tournament appearance since 2015.

Beyond the immediate implications for the tournament, Tulane’s elevated standing has broader ramifications for recruiting and program visibility. The success has attracted interest from several high‑profile high school prospects who have expressed admiration for Tulane’s competitive culture and the coaching staff’s clear commitment to player development.

Linking to Additional Resources

For readers wishing to delve deeper into Tulane’s performance, the full box score and play‑by‑play statistics can be accessed on the official AAC website ([ aac.com ]). The NCAA’s statistical database provides a comprehensive breakdown of individual and team metrics ([ ncaa.com ]).

The NOLA.com feature also includes an embedded highlight reel from the Tulane Athletics YouTube channel, offering a visual recap of the most pivotal plays. Additionally, the “Tulane Athletics” page on the university’s official site provides a schedule preview, noting that the Blue Demons will face the SMU Mustangs on March 10, a matchup that will further test their newfound prowess.

Conclusion

Tulane’s ascent to the top of the American Athletic Conference represents more than a single game victory; it signals a transformative era for a program that has long been a mid‑tier contender. Through strategic coaching, robust defensive execution, and the emergence of a deep bench, the Blue Demons have crafted a narrative of resilience and ambition. As the AAC tournament approaches, Tulane’s position in first place offers both a tangible target and a symbolic testament to the program’s renewed vigor. The 2024–25 season has become a defining chapter in Tulane’s basketball history, and the road ahead promises further excitement for players, fans, and the broader athletic community.