NEWARK, NJ — Former NJIT men's basketball standout Demond Cowins will be inducted into the Central Atlantic Collegiate Conference (CACC) Hall of Fame as a member of the Class of 2026, adding another distinguished honor to his accomplished basketball career.
Cowins left his mark on the NJIT men's basketball program, finishing his career as the Highlanders' second all-time leading scorer with 1,909 points and fourth all-time leading rebounder with 959 rebounds. He also holds the NJIT school record for free throws made with 478.
A prolific scorer throughout his career, Cowins, who was inducted into the NJIT Athletics Hall of Fame in 2020, ranks third and ninth on NJIT's all-time single-season scoring list after recording 598 points in 2003-04 and 550 points in 2002-03, respectively. During his senior campaign, he averaged 21.4 points per game, ranking fifth all-time in NJIT single-season scoring average.
As a junior in 2002-03, Cowins helped lead the Highlanders to an 18-11 overall record and a 16-4 mark in CACC play, earning the team a first-place finish in the conference and a berth in the ECAC Division II Tournament.
Over his NJIT career, Cowins helped the Highlanders compile a 49-31 record in CACC competition and played a key role in two of the program's three ECAC Division II Tournament appearances. He also ranks tied for 10th all-time at NJIT with 112 games played.
"I am deeply honored and humbled to be recognized alongside some of the greatest athletes in CACC history," said Cowins. "My sincere thanks to the CACC for this distinguished recognition. Above all, I am profoundly grateful to my wife, mother, my family, and my NJIT family for their unwavering encouragement and support throughout my athletic career."
Cowins' impact on basketball has continued well beyond his playing career. In his final season as a high school coach in 2022-23, he was named SEC Independent Division High School Coach of the Year, recognizing his leadership and accomplishments on the sidelines.
He currently serves as the Director of the West Orange Elite Huskies Basketball Club, where he continues to develop young players and provide opportunities for athletes to grow through basketball.
The CACC Hall of Fame induction also comes during a memorable year for Cowins, who will be inducted into the Newark Athletic Hall of Fame in October 2026. The two honors recognize his lasting contributions to basketball and his continued impact on the Newark and New Jersey basketball communities.
His induction into the CACC Hall of Fame Class of 2026 marks another significant milestone.