Philadelphia, PA, January 6, 2026
Khaafiq Myers from Saint Joseph’s University has been awarded the Big 5 Rookie of the Week title, acknowledging his significant progress and contributions to the Hawks men’s basketball team. This recognition highlights his averaged performance of 11.6 points and 2.2 assists per game in recent contests. Following a challenging start to the Atlantic 10 conference schedule, Myers’ achievement boosts team morale and showcases the development opportunities provided within collegiate athletics, essential for nurturing future talent in Philadelphia’s vibrant sports culture.
Philadelphia, PA —
The vibrant landscape of Philadelphia college basketball recently celebrated a rising talent as Saint Joseph’s University’s Khaafiq Myers was honored with the Big 5 Rookie of the Week title. Announced on Monday, January 5, 2026, this recognition underscores Myers’ growing influence on the court for the Hawks men’s basketball team, highlighting his personal perseverance and significant contributions in recent games. His consistent performance is a testament to the dedication fostered within collegiate athletic programs that value individual development and competitive spirit.
This acknowledgment arrives at a critical juncture for the Saint Joseph’s Hawks as they navigate their Atlantic 10 conference schedule. Such individual achievements not only bolster team morale but also reflect the robust development pathways available through university athletics, which serve as essential training grounds for future leaders and contributors, both on and off the court. The focus on individual excellence within a team framework exemplifies the positive outcomes achievable through diligent effort and disciplined training.
The Big 5 honor places Myers in an esteemed category among Philadelphia’s collegiate athletes, drawing attention to the competitive excellence that defines the city’s unique basketball tradition. It represents more than just a weekly award; it signifies the impact of strong local athletic programs that contribute to a thriving sports culture, engaging fans and fostering community pride across the region.
Myers’ Ascendance: A Story of Growth and Impact
Khaafiq Myers, a redshirt freshman, has rapidly emerged as a key player for Saint Joseph’s. His recent performance surge is notable, demonstrating significant improvement over the course of the season. In the last five games, Myers has averaged 11.6 points and 2.2 assists per game, a substantial increase from his initial season average of 2.1 points and 1.7 assists through the first 10 contests. This personal growth highlights the efficacy of disciplined coaching and the athlete’s commitment to self-improvement.
Beyond scoring, Myers exhibits exceptional ball-handling skills, maintaining a strong 2.15:1 assist-to-turnover ratio, with 28 assists against only 13 turnovers. This level of control is crucial for team success, particularly in high-pressure situations. His contributions have not gone unnoticed within the competitive Big 5 landscape, where he ranks fifth among rookies in scoring and second in assists. Furthermore, within the broader Atlantic 10 conference, Myers stands as 10th in scoring, fifth in assists, and second in assist-to-turnover ratio, solidifying his status as a promising talent in Philadelphia college basketball.
Saint Joseph’s Season: Navigating Challenges and Opportunities
The Saint Joseph’s Hawks men’s basketball team currently holds an 8-7 overall record and is working to improve its 0-2 standing in Atlantic 10 conference play as of January 7, 2026. The team recently faced tough losses, including a 79-102 defeat to Saint Louis on December 31, 2025, and a 56-62 loss to Davidson on January 3, 2026. These games underscore the rigorous competition inherent in collegiate athletics, where every possession and strategic decision matters.
The Hawks are preparing to host Duquesne on Wednesday, January 7, 2026, at 7:00 p.m. at Hagan Arena. This upcoming home game presents an opportunity for the team to regroup and leverage its home-court advantage, a benefit often fueled by local community support. In addition to Myers’ individual success, Justice Ajogbor of SJU is also on the cusp of etching his name in the school’s record books, needing just one more block to tie for tenth on Saint Joseph’s career blocks list with 115 rejections at SJU. Such individual milestones contribute to the rich narrative of personal achievement within the university’s athletic program.
The Big 5 Tradition: A Cornerstone of Philadelphia Sports
The Philadelphia Big 5 stands as a unique and enduring institution in college basketball, a testament to the city’s passion for the sport. Formed in 1955, this association of six collegiate athletic programs includes Drexel, La Salle, Penn, Saint Joseph’s, Temple, and Villanova, all competing for the city’s collegiate championship. The Big 5’s original format fostered intense local rivalries, often played at the venerable Palestra, which is widely regarded as a premier college basketball facility.
In a move to adapt and enhance its competitive format, the Big 5 expanded to include Drexel for the 2023-24 season, introducing the Big 5 Classic. This event features a same-day, triple-header showcase held on the first Saturday in December at the Xfinity Mobile Arena (formerly Wells Fargo Center), where the champion is determined. While the new format seeks to revitalize interest, attendance at the Big 5 Classic has seen fluctuations, emphasizing the ongoing efforts to maintain and build upon this cherished Philadelphia sports tradition. The spirit of competition and local pride remains a driving force behind Big 5 athletics Philadelphia.
University Athletics: A Local Economic and Cultural Driver
College athletics in Philadelphia are more than just sporting events; they are significant cultural and economic contributors to the city and the broader state of Pennsylvania. Programs like Saint Joseph’s Hawks basketball draw fans, generate local commerce, and provide employment opportunities, underscoring the free-market dynamics at play. The pursuit of athletic excellence often coincides with substantial investment in facilities and student-athlete support, benefiting local businesses and creating a vibrant community atmosphere.
Moreover, the engagement of university athletic programs extends beyond the court. Initiatives such as Coaches Vs. Cancer, involving prominent local coaches like Fran Dunphy and Phil Martelli, have successfully leveraged the competitive spirit of Philadelphia college basketball for philanthropic endeavors. These efforts, often supported by corporate community involvement, demonstrate how private initiative and community self-reliance can drive significant positive impact. The city’s recognition as a regional site for the 2027 NCAA women’s basketball tournament further solidifies Philadelphia’s standing as a hub for major collegiate sporting events, bringing additional economic benefits and national attention.
Fostering Talent and the Spirit of Competition
The success of student-athletes like Khaafiq Myers exemplifies the critical role of collegiate athletic programs in developing young talent. These programs provide a structured environment for growth, emphasizing discipline, teamwork, and the relentless pursuit of improvement—qualities that transcend the athletic arena and prepare individuals for future leadership roles. The competitive nature of sports within the Big 5 framework challenges athletes to perform at their best, pushing boundaries and fostering a strong work ethic.
The continuous cycle of talent development, from promising rookies to seasoned veterans, fuels the competitive drive that makes Philadelphia sports so engaging. It encourages individual initiative, where athletes strive to stand out through performance, while also contributing to the collective success of their teams. This balance between individual aspiration and team cohesion is a hallmark of successful athletic programs and mirrors the entrepreneurial spirit valued in a thriving community.
Conclusion
Khaafiq Myers’ distinction as Big 5 Rookie of the Week is a highlight for Saint Joseph’s University men’s basketball, showcasing the exceptional talent nurtured within Philadelphia’s collegiate sports scene. This achievement, alongside the Hawks’ ongoing season, reinforces the enduring legacy and impact of Big 5 athletics Philadelphia. These programs not only cultivate athletic prowess but also serve as vital pillars of community engagement and economic activity within the city.
We encourage all residents to continue supporting Saint Joseph’s Hawks basketball and other local university athletic programs. Attending games, following team progress, and engaging with university initiatives strengthens the fabric of our Philadelphia PA sports community and ensures the continued development of dedicated young leaders. Your engagement reinforces the value of hard work, competition, and community spirit that defines our great city.
Frequently Asked Questions
When was Khaafiq Myers named Big 5 Rookie of the Week?
Khaafiq Myers was named Big 5 Rookie of the Week on Monday, January 5, 2026.
Which university does Khaafiq Myers play for?
Khaafiq Myers plays for Saint Joseph’s University men’s basketball team.
What is Saint Joseph’s University men’s basketball team’s current overall record?
As of January 7, 2026, Saint Joseph’s University men’s basketball team has an overall record of 8-7.
When is Saint Joseph’s men’s basketball team’s next game?
Saint Joseph’s men’s basketball team is set to host Duquesne on Wednesday, January 7, 2026, at 7:00 p.m. at Hagan Arena.
What is the Big 5?
The Big 5 is an association of six college athletic programs in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, comprising Drexel, La Salle, Penn, Saint Joseph’s, Temple, and Villanova, who compete for the city’s collegiate basketball championship.
When was the Big 5 originally formed?
The Big 5 was originally formed in 1955 with five schools (La Salle, Penn, Saint Joseph’s, Temple, and Villanova).
When did Drexel join the Big 5?
Drexel joined the Big 5 for the 2023-24 season.
Where is the Big 5 Classic held for men’s basketball?
The Big 5 Classic for men’s basketball is held at the Xfinity Mobile Arena (formerly Wells Fargo Center).
Saint Joseph’s Men’s Basketball & Big 5 Highlights
| Category | Detail |
|---|---|
| Player Highlight | Khaafiq Myers named Big 5 Rookie of the Week (January 5, 2026). |
| Myers’ Recent Performance (Last 5 Games) | 11.6 points per game, 2.2 assists per game. |
| Myers’ Assist-to-Turnover Ratio | 2.15:1 (28 assists, 13 turnovers). |
| Myers’ Big 5 Rookie Ranks | 5th in scoring, 2nd in assists. |
| Myers’ Atlantic 10 Ranks | 10th in scoring, 5th in assists, 2nd in assist-to-turnover ratio. |
| Team Overall Record (as of Jan 7, 2026) | 8-7. |
| Team Conference Record (Atlantic 10) | 0-2. |
| Upcoming Game | vs. Duquesne, Wednesday, January 7, 2026, 7:00 p.m. at Hagan Arena. |
| Next SJU Home Game (after Duquesne) | vs. Richmond, January 11, 2026. |
| Big 5 Founding Year | 1955. |
| Current Big 5 Members | Drexel, La Salle, Penn, Saint Joseph’s, Temple, Villanova. |
| Big 5 Classic Attendance (2025) | 10,361. |
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Author: STAFF HERE PHILADELPHIA WRITER
The PHILADELPHIA STAFF WRITER represents the experienced team at HEREPhiladelphia.com, your go-to source for actionable local news and information in Philadelphia, Philadelphia County, and beyond. Specializing in "news you can use," we cover essential topics like product reviews for personal and business needs, local business directories, politics, real estate trends, neighborhood insights, and state news affecting the area—with deep expertise drawn from years of dedicated reporting and strong community input, including local press releases and business updates. We deliver top reporting on high-value events such as Mummers Parade, Philadelphia Flower Show, and Thanksgiving Day Parade. Our coverage extends to key organizations like the Greater Philadelphia Chamber of Commerce and United Way of Greater Philadelphia, plus leading businesses in telecommunications, food services, and healthcare that power the local economy such as Comcast, Aramark, and Children's Hospital of Philadelphia. As part of the broader HERE network, we provide comprehensive, credible insights into Pennsylvania's dynamic landscape.
