Cooper Named NABC South Atlantic District Coach of the Year; Kon and Khaman Earn All-District Honors
In an outstanding display of leadership and talent, the University of South Carolina Upstate (USC Upstate) men’s basketball program has earned recognition at the national level as head coach Dave Cooper was named the National Association of Basketball Coaches (NABC) South Atlantic District Coach of the Year. Alongside Cooper’s achievement, standout players Bryson Kon and Mohamed Khaman were honored with All-District accolades, marking a historic achievement for the program.
This remarkable trio represents a significant milestone for USC Upstate basketball, as the program continues to build a solid reputation for excellence both on the court and within the broader collegiate basketball community. In this article, we will explore the achievements of Coach Cooper, Kon, and Khaman, delving into the impact they’ve had on the program and the recognition they have received for their outstanding efforts during the 2024-2025 season.
Dave Cooper: A Visionary Leader
When Dave Cooper took the helm as head coach of the USC Upstate men’s basketball program, the future seemed full of promise. In just a few short years, he has transformed the program into one of the most competitive in the South Atlantic District, culminating in his recognition as the NABC South Atlantic District Coach of the Year.
Cooper’s coaching philosophy centers around building a culture of accountability, discipline, and relentless effort. His emphasis on defense and team-oriented play has paid dividends, as USC Upstate became known for its aggressive defense and unselfish ball movement. This coaching style has resonated with his players, who consistently give their best effort on both ends of the floor, embodying the principles Cooper has instilled since day one.
Throughout the 2024-2025 season, Cooper guided the Spartans to a stellar record, finishing with one of their best campaigns in recent history. Under his leadership, the team showed consistent improvement and demonstrated resilience in the face of tough competition. His ability to adapt to different game situations and maximize the potential of his players helped elevate USC Upstate to new heights.
Cooper’s success is not just a product of X’s and O’s but also his ability to build relationships with his players. A former player himself, Cooper understands the importance of developing strong bonds both on and off the court. His open-door policy, approachable demeanor, and willingness to mentor his players have fostered a positive and supportive environment within the program.
The NABC South Atlantic District Coach of the Year award is a testament to Cooper’s unwavering commitment to excellence. His coaching acumen, leadership skills, and ability to inspire his players have made a profound impact on USC Upstate basketball, and this prestigious recognition is a well-deserved honor.
Bryson Kon: A Rising Star
As one of the standout players for the USC Upstate Spartans during the 2024-2025 season, Bryson Kon earned a spot on the NABC All-District Team, solidifying his reputation as one of the top players in the South Atlantic District. A versatile forward, Kon played an instrumental role in the team’s success, showcasing an impressive skill set that makes him a force to be reckoned with on both ends of the court.
Kon’s basketball journey has been one of growth and development. His combination of athleticism, basketball IQ, and work ethic has made him a standout performer for USC Upstate. Whether it was scoring, rebounding, or defending, Kon was a reliable contributor in every facet of the game. His ability to impact the game in multiple ways has made him a key player for the Spartans, and his presence was often felt in clutch moments when the team needed him most.
One of Kon’s greatest strengths is his ability to score in a variety of ways. He possesses a smooth shooting stroke, capable of knocking down mid-range jumpers or three-pointers with consistency. However, his true versatility shines through in his ability to drive to the basket, finish in traffic, and create opportunities for his teammates. Whether operating in the post or on the perimeter, Kon’s scoring ability kept opposing defenses on their toes throughout the season.
In addition to his offensive prowess, Kon is known for his tenacious defense. He often drew the assignment of guarding the opposing team’s top scorer, and his ability to lock down on-ball defenders was a key reason for USC Upstate’s success on that end of the floor. His length, quickness, and basketball IQ made him a disruptive force, and his defensive efforts were often crucial in turning the tide of games.
Kon’s recognition as an All-District honoree is a reflection of his hard work, determination, and outstanding play throughout the season. His growth as a player and leader has been a driving force for USC Upstate, and his future looks incredibly bright as he continues to develop his game.
Mohamed Khaman: A Defensive Dynamo
While Bryson Kon stood out for his all-around scoring ability, Mohamed Khaman made his mark as one of the most dominant defensive players in the South Atlantic District. The USC Upstate center was awarded All-District honors for his exceptional contributions on the defensive end, and his presence in the paint was a game-changer for the Spartans.
Khaman’s impact on defense cannot be overstated. Standing at 6’10”, he possesses an imposing physical frame that made him a formidable shot-blocker and rebounder. Throughout the season, Khaman consistently altered opponents’ shots in the paint and cleaned up on the glass, allowing USC Upstate to control the tempo of the game. His ability to defend without fouling, combined with his excellent timing and basketball instincts, made him a difficult player to score against in the low post.
In addition to his shot-blocking prowess, Khaman’s ability to protect the rim was vital to the success of USC Upstate’s defensive strategy. His timing as a help defender allowed him to frequently rotate and provide support to teammates, and his awareness of positioning made him a constant threat in the paint. As a result, opposing teams often found it difficult to score inside when Khaman was on the floor.
Offensively, Khaman’s game continued to develop throughout the season. While he was primarily known for his defensive abilities, Khaman showed significant improvement as a scorer, particularly in the post. He also showcased an improved jump shot, which made him a more versatile offensive weapon. As his confidence grew, Khaman became more comfortable in the offensive flow, adding a new dimension to USC Upstate’s game plan.
Khaman’s all-around contributions were crucial to the team’s success, and his recognition as an All-District honoree is a reflection of his dominance on the defensive end. His commitment to improving his game and his ability to impact the game in a variety of ways make him one of the top players in the district and one of the most valuable assets for the USC Upstate Spartans.
A Bright Future for USC Upstate Basketball
The recognition of Dave Cooper, Bryson Kon, and Mohamed Khaman is a significant achievement for the USC Upstate men’s basketball program. It highlights not only the individual talents of these three but also the continued progress of the program as a whole. Under Coach Cooper’s leadership, the Spartans have shown they can compete at a high level and produce players who can earn accolades at the national level.
Looking ahead, the future of USC Upstate basketball appears incredibly bright. With a strong foundation in place, the program is poised to continue its upward trajectory. Coach Cooper’s ability to recruit top-tier talent and develop players has created a winning culture at USC Upstate, and the recognition of Kon and Khaman only further underscores the program’s potential.
For Kon and Khaman, their All-District honors represent just the beginning of what promises to be a successful collegiate career. Both players have the talent, work ethic, and drive to continue improving and achieving great things in the years to come. With their contributions, USC Upstate has positioned itself as a team to watch in the future.
The recognition of Dave Cooper as the NABC South Atlantic District Coach of the Year, along with the All-District honors earned by Bryson Kon and Mohamed Khaman, is a testament to the hard work, dedication, and talent within the USC Upstate men’s basketball program. These accolades reflect the success of the Spartans during the 2024-2025 season, and they serve as a foundation for continued growth and success in the future. As Coach Cooper continues to guide the program, and Kon and Khaman continue to develop, the future of USC Upstate basketball looks incredibly promising.