Faulkner’s 2001 National Championship winning Basketball Team inducted into Hall of Fame
The 2001
Faulkner Men’s Basketball Team, which won the 2001 NAIA National Championship, was inducted into the school’s Hall of Fame. This is the first team in school history that has collectively been inducted into the Hall of Fame.
“It feels unbelievable. Just to have someone remember you 25 years ago. It’s a blur, you know because you’re so young you don’t really remember everything, but it’s a great feeling man, just for everyone to come here and show their appreciation,” explains Rodney Keener, a member of the 2001 team.
The Eagles’ magical run during the 2000-2001 season led them to a 34-5 overall record. The NAIA Men’s Basketball National Championship was held that year in Tulsa, Oklahoma. In the championship game, the Eagles defeated the University of Science and Arts of Oklahoma 63-59. Faulkner’s efforts led by Head Coach Jim Sanderson.
“Just being able to see all the faces in here tonight a lot of people who I’ve worked with that are no longer here that I got to see for the first time in a long time it does make it special and yeah this is like home to me,” says Sanderson.
