Blankenship Earns Sixth RRAC Coach of the Year Honor

SHREVEPORT, La. – Kyle Blankenship has once again been recognized as one of the premier leaders in the Red River Athletic Conference, earning his sixth RRAC Coach of the Year award following another historic season at the helm of LSU Shreveport men's basketball.

Blankenship guided the Pilots to a 24-5 overall record and a dominant 20-2 mark in conference play, capturing the RRAC Regular Season Championship and securing an automatic berth to the NAIA Men's Basketball Tournament for the 22nd consecutive year. Under his leadership, LSUS continues to set the standard for sustained excellence both within the conference and on the national stage.

The 2025-26 campaign was marked by milestones and momentum. The Pilots raced out to their best conference start in program history, opening RRAC play at 12-0 by Jan. 17 following a victory over Texas A&M–San Antonio. LSUS also etched its name into the record books defensively, breaking the program record for most blocks in a single game with 17 against UNT Dallas.

Known for his offensive system and player development, Blankenship coached one of the top offenses in the country this season. The Pilots averaged 92 points per game while pulling down 42.2 rebounds and dishing out 17.6 assists per contest. LSUS also averaged 7.6 steals and 5.9 blocks per game, showcasing a balanced and explosive style of play. Four Pilots (Hayden Brittingham, Khi Wallace, Thaddeus Johnson, and Emareyon McDonald) averaged at least 14 points per game, underscoring the depth and versatility of the squad.Alexzaye Johnson is among the top 5 assist leaders in the nation with 5.2 assists per game.

On the national scene, LSU Shreveport held firm at No. 13 in the Feb. 25 NAIA Men's Basketball Coaches Top 25 Poll. The Pilots opened the year receiving votes before entering the Top 25 at No. 25. From there, LSUS rose to No. 15 and eventually climbed to No. 13, where it remains as postseason play intensifies.

Blankenship's sixth Coach of the Year honor further solidifies his legacy as one of the most accomplished coaches in conference history, as he continues to elevate the Pilots program to new heights year after year.

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