IUP and Gannon Clash in PSAC Basketball Showdown with Championship Implications

INDIANA, Pa. – February 28, 2026 – The Indiana University of Pennsylvania (IUP) men’s basketball team faces a critical matchup against the No. 5 nationally ranked Gannon Golden Knights today, with tip-off scheduled for 3:00 p.m. At the Kovalchick Athletic Training Center (KCAC). The game will determine the PSAC West division title.

The Stakes

IUP enters the contest with a 20-5 overall record and a 15-4 mark in PSAC play, having recently suffered their first loss in February on the road. Gannon boasts an impressive 25-2 overall record and an 18-1 conference record, riding a 12-game winning streak. This is a pivotal game for both teams, with the division title on the line.

Lombardi’s Legacy Continues

IUP head coach Joe Lombardi is in his 20th season leading the Crimson Hawks, establishing himself as one of the most successful coaches in Division II basketball. He currently ranks among the top five active Division II coaches in career wins with 451, including 280 in PSAC competition.

Senior Salute

Today’s game is particularly significant as it honors four IUP seniors: Luke Triggs, Christian Moore, Dallis Dillard, and Damir Brooks. Each senior has contributed to the team’s success in unique ways.

• Luke Triggs: Has consistently provided valuable minutes off the bench, averaging 13.3 minutes per game.
• Christian Moore: Leads the PSAC with 83 three-point field goals, shooting at a .405 percentage, ranking eighth in the conference.
• Dallis Dillard: Has been recognized as a top 50 finalist for the Bevo Francis Award, honoring the top player in tiny college basketball.
• Damir Brooks: Has shown significant improvement throughout his career, tripling his points per game from 2022 to 2025. He leads IUP in steals with 26, ranking sixth in the PSAC.

Key Players to Watch

Dallis Dillard’s Dominance: Dillard currently leads the PSAC in scoring with 21.3 points per game and boasts the second-most assists in the conference with 128. His all-around performance will be crucial for IUP.

Christian Moore’s Consistency: Moore is close behind Dillard, averaging 17.3 points per game, ranking eighth in the PSAC. His shooting accuracy from beyond the arc makes him a constant threat.

Gannon at a Glance

IUP welcomes the Golden Knights, who hold an overall record of 25-2 and a near-undefeated conference record at 18-1. Gannon was most recently ranked No. 5 in the NABC Coaches Poll. Leading scorer for the Golden Knights is sophomore guard Pace Prosser, averaging 17.4 PPG with a team-leading 59 steals.

Series History

IUP leads the all-time series 32-26 dating back to 1983. While, Gannon has won the last seven contests against IUP, marking the longest losing streak in the series history for the Crimson Hawks.

Team Statistics

IUP proves they are able to play both sides of the play effectively. Offensively, IUP’s 84.8 PPG is ranked fourth in the PSAC. Defensively, IUP limits opponents to 73.0 PPG which is third-least in the conference. The Crimson Hawks point margin of +11.8 is third best in the PSAC.

Broadcast Information

The game will be streamed on the PSAC Digital Network with Riley Yonchiuk and Dock Brown providing commentary. Fans can also listen on U92 FM with Jack Benedict and Tony Coccagna calling the action.