Howard's Terry Copeland Jr. wins NJCAA DI Men's Basketball Player of the Year
Charlotte, NC: Howard College (TX) star forward/center Terry Copeland Jr. has been named the 2025-26 NJCAA Division I Men's Basketball Player of the Year.
The star freshman recorded a double-double in the title game (23 points, 16 rebounds), and earned NJCAA First Team All-America honors.
Copeland was one of the top shooters and scorers this season, averaging 19.8 points and 7.9 rebounds for the top-ranked Hawks. He also shot 35.3% from behind the arc. The freshmen led Howard to many outstanding feats this season, including the Southwest District Champions, being ranked in the Top 5 multiple times this season, and the No. 1 overall seed in the 2026 Credit Union 1 NJCAA DI Men's Basketball Championship.
He was named the Western Junior College Athletic Conference (WJCAC) Player of the Year. Terry also earned a spot on the All-Region V Team, All-Conference Team, and the Region V All-Tournament Team. His critical performance in the Southwest District Championship (24 points, 8 rebounds) vs. Midland, was crucial in the Hawks Region V win.
Copeland helped bring the trophy back to Texas, ending a 16 year drought for the Hawks. In an interview after returning to Big Spring, Copeland nods off to the community saying that their support and love has helped the Hawks bring the Championship Title home.
When asked about Copeland, Head Coach Kyle Cooper notes "Terry is very special not only as a player but also as a person. He is a dominant force on the basketball court and an amazing leader. We were very fortunate to have him represent Howard College this year, and he left a lasting impact on both our college and community." In an interview after returning home Coach Cooper explains that the teams hard work all season is a direct reflection of their reward, something Terry Copeland played a key part in.
NJCAA Stats
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19.8 PPG
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7.9 RPG
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1.5 APG
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67.5 FG%
- 35.3 3PT%
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Career high 35 points in a game
NJCAA Accomplishments
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2025-26 NJCAA DI Men's Basketball First-Team All-America Selection
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WJAC Player of the Year
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Member of All Region V Team
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Region V All Conference Team
- Region V All Tournament Team
