Dominique Daniels Jr. Prioritizes Team Success, Returns to CBU Despite NIL Opportunities

California Baptist University (CBU) men’s basketball star Dominique Daniels Jr. Made a rare decision in the current landscape of college athletics: he chose to return to his team despite potential lucrative Name, Image, and Likeness (NIL) deals elsewhere. Daniels, recently named the 2025-26 Western Athletic Conference (WAC) Men’s Basketball Player of the Year , has consistently demonstrated high-level performance, averaging 19.6 and 19.2 points in the 2024-25 and 2023-24 seasons, respectively, and earning All-WAC First Team honors last season.

A Test of Character and Faith

Daniels’ decision to remain at CBU, a mid-major program, stands in contrast to the trend of highly skilled players using such institutions as stepping stones to larger programs with greater financial opportunities. He reportedly engaged in a period of prayer and fasting to guide his decision-making process after the 2024 season, foregoing food for two to three weeks, consuming only water, and losing approximately 10 pounds in the process.

Teammates and Coaches Praise Daniels’ Leadership

Teammate Jayden Jackson emphasized Daniels’ humility and team-oriented approach, stating his return “speaks huge to his character.” Jackson noted Daniels’ lack of self-promotion and consistent dedication to the team’s success.

Head Coach Rick Croy acknowledged Daniels’ fast, though he was unaware of its duration, and highlighted the player’s unwavering commitment to his values. Croy described Daniels as a leader not only within the basketball program but as well within the university and his local church in Compton, California, located 50 miles west of CBU’s campus. Croy stated Daniels consistently prioritizes what he believes is right, influencing his teammates positively.

Recent On-Court Success

Daniels recently led CBU to an 86-72 victory over Utah Tech on March 13, 2026, securing the team’s first appearance in the WAC Championship Game . He scored a game-high 41 points in that contest, marking his second 40-point performance of the season and the most regulation points in CBU Division I history. He was three points shy of the WAC Tournament single-game record and nine points away from the CBU single-season scoring record.

Looking Ahead

With Daniels leading the charge, CBU is one win away from its first-ever berth in the NCAA Division I Men’s Basketball Tournament. His commitment to the program and his exceptional performance on the court position the Lancers for continued success.