It continues to be a milestone week for our men’s basketball program, one that won’t soon be forgotten. Head Coach Bryan Bender has been named HoopDirt.com’s Coach of the Week, and the Panthers remain firmly at No. 1 in the nation in the Week 5 NJCAA rankings. It’s one of the most significant achievements in program history.

What makes this recognition even more meaningful is the company we’re in. HoopDirt’s weekly honors highlight coaches across every level of college basketball, from powerhouse Division I programs to established Division II and NAIA schools. Seeing Coach Bender listed alongside leaders from major universities is more than a headline. It’s a validation.

“Coach Bender and his team absolutely earned this,” said Athletic Director Nate Forysth. “It’s pretty special to see our program mentioned in the same breath as schools from upper divisions. It shows the caliber of what’s being built here and the level of respect our team is gaining nationally.”

The Panthers’ rise to the No. 1 spot has been fueled by discipline, unselfish play, and a relentless commitment to doing things the right way. Every practice, every defensive stand, and every road trip has brought them to this moment, and now the nation is taking notice.

As the season moves forward, one thing is clear: the Panthers aren’t just part of the national conversation. They’re leading it.