The Alabama A&M University men’s basketball program is facing NCAA Academic Progress Rate (APR) penalties, which will impact its postseason eligibility.
The APR deficiencies that led to the penalty stem from multiple years of challenges in academic oversight and student-athlete retention under previous leadership. While those outcomes cannot be reversed, they have created a clear mandate for improvement within the program.
What is APR?
The NCAA’s Academic Progress Rate (APR) measures a program’s academic eligibility and retention. Teams earn points each term based on student-athletes staying in school and remaining academically eligible. Falling below the NCAA standard can result in penalties, including scholarship reductions and postseason ineligibility.
Vice President and Director of Athletics Paul A. Bryant addressed the situation directly, emphasizing accountability and a renewed commitment to academic success.
“This is not the standard we expect for Alabama A&M University,” Bryant said. “We are committed to excellence in the classroom and in competition, and we take full responsibility for ensuring our programs reflect those values. We are building something rooted in accountability, academic success, and pride in representing Alabama A&M — and we are already seeing the impact in the classroom and in our young men’s growth as leaders.”
Since the arrival of the current administration and coaching staff, Alabama A&M has implemented enhanced academic support resources, increased accountability measures, and a renewed emphasis on total student-athlete development.
Head coach Donte Jackson acknowledged the disappointment but emphasized a forward-looking approach.
“We’re obviously disappointed for our student-athletes, because they’ve been working hard and deserve the opportunity to compete in the postseason,” Jackson said. “But we understand where we are and what needs to be done. Our focus is on building better habits, strengthening our academic commitment, and making sure this program is moving in the right direction.”
Alabama A&M will continue working closely with the NCAA to restore full postseason eligibility. The program remains committed to building a culture that competes at a high level while prioritizing academic success and long-term development.
