Hours before the 2024-2025 "Bucs and Buckets" event, Head Coach Saah Nimley was asked about some of the new faces on his roster. Before he began to speak on Jaylon Gibson, his 6'10" transfer from UNC Greensboro, he smiled and described,
"I call him The Mayor. Every time I see him on our campus he is talking to someone new, laughing with someone, smiling with someone… we are excited about him on the basketball court, but I can not imagine anyone being a better fit for Charleston Southern off-the-court than Jaylon Gibson."
That is who Gibson is, and there is zero level of hesitation when he is asked to determine where his demeanor stems from.
"Jesus Christ is the foundation of my life… I'm not perfect, but I strive to serve others and approach my work with the mindset that I'm doing it for the Lord."
It was not difficult to find a voice that would echo Coach Nimley's comment about Gibson's campus involvement and how he supports his fellow Buccaneers. Emmy Rollins, a friend and fellow student-athlete to Gibson, was happy to express how grateful she is to have such a supportive fellow Buc in her corner.
"Jaylon is intentional in supporting every person he comes in contact with. He takes the time to build relationships with as many people as he can, and when you see how many people feel loved and supported by him, it's evident and a testament to how consistently he displays God's love."
Although Gibson highlights his faith as the force that steers his ship through the waters of student-athlete responsibilities, he was not born with a compass so focused. Before enrolling in the Lowcountry, Gibson spent time at a handful of other universities.
"At my previous schools, I was running from God. The decision to surrender my life to Christ on November 9, 2023 was a pivot point in my journey as a student, athlete, follower, and person. That decision thankfully led me to CSU, and since then God has been working in my life in ways I never thought imaginable."
The decision to join the Charleston Southern student body and men's basketball program occurred in Spring of 2024 when Gibson was contacted by the Buccaneer coaching staff.
"From the moment I stepped on campus, I was welcomed with open arms and was shown nothing but love… CSU basketball and the coaching staff have been an incredible blessing."
Although he has not even been in the Palmetto State for a full year, Gibson was asked what memories and pieces of his CSU experience stand out.
"It honestly is hard to put into words… there's something truly special about this campus… my favorite moments have all been centered around getting to serve and love others whether that is pushing my teammates in practice, supporting my coaches, or simply brightening someone's day on campus. Those moments mean more to me than any individual accomplishment."
An accomplishment Gibson identified while having a conversation about this article, was his recently found security in his identity as a believer and how that translates to his on-court play on the basketball floor.
"I've learned to play with calm confidence… In the past, I struggled with anxiety and played timidly, but the Lord has renewed my mind through His word. That renewal has transformed not only my mindset but my approach to the game as well."
Charleston Southern University is a special place to many, including Gibson. When asked if he could directly think of why he's most glad he became a member of Buc Nation, Gibson responded with a smile and a stream of thoughts only the Zebulon, North Carolina native himself could articulate so eloquently.
"Since arriving in Charleston, I have experienced significant growth, both on and off the court. I always say, it's bigger than basketball. The game is simply a resource that points back to the source, God. My gift is just a reflection of the giver. I constantly pray for wisdom, strength, and grace, and am beyond grateful that God answered my prayers and led me to CSU. Here, I'm surrounded by people who not only support me in discovering how to steward my gifts effectively, but also share the same burning desire to do the Lord's will."
While thinking of how to quantify the impact that Gibson has on the campus of Charleston Southern in its entirety, a profound quote by the gentle giant about his source of fruitful energy highlighted itself to the forefront.
"I no longer seek validation from others because I know not who I am, but whose I am."
