Raymond Reece Powers Philander Smith to Big Week, Earns NAIA Men’s Basketball Player of the Week

Philander Smith University forward Raymond Reece has been named the NAIA Men’s Basketball Player of the Week, capping a dominant Thanksgiving stretch in which he delivered back-to-back 30-point performances and showcased elite efficiency on both ends of the floor.

Reece opened the week with a statement outing, pouring in 35 points in 36 minutes to lead the Panthers to a 78–68 victory over Central Baptist (Ark.). The junior star was nearly unstoppable in the paint, shooting 15-for-20 (75%) from the field and adding 18 rebounds to secure his seventh double-double of the season. He also knocked down 5 of 6 free throws, controlling the game from start to finish as Philander Smith notched a key nonconference win.

If his first performance wasn’t enough, Reece followed it with another masterpiece. Against Arkansas Baptist, he delivered his eighth double-double of the season, posting 32 points and 16 rebounds in an 85–75 win. Reece was a perfect 9-for-9 at the free-throw line and converted 11 of 19 field-goal attempts, powering the Panthers through a tightly contested matchup against the Buffaloes.

Across the two-game week, Reece’s production was nothing short of spectacular. He shot 26-for-39 from the floor (66.7%), finished 14-for-15 at the foul line, pulled down 34 rebounds (an average of 17 per game), and added five assists, solidifying himself as one of the most impactful players in the NAIA.

With the Panthers surging and Reece delivering All-American-level performances, Philander Smith’s momentum continues to grow as the season heads into its winter stretch. If this past week is any indication, Reece isn’t just playing like one of the best in the conference—he’s making his case as one of the best in the nation.