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Rust College Baseball Stars Earn Black College Nines Elites Honors
Posted: Jul 01, 2025

Rust College Baseball Stars Earn Black College Nines Elites Honors

Kyrent Cole (photo to the left) earned First Team honors at second base, marking him as one of the premier infielders across HBCU small schools. Malik Berrien (middle photo) was named to the Second Team as an outfielder, recognizing his consistent performance and offensive firepower. Shamaar Stapleton (photo to the right) secured Third Team nod as an outfielder, nodding to his powerful presence at the plate.
 
Black College Nines bases its All-Elite selections on a combination of season statistics, mid-season evaluations, and endorsements from coaches and sports information directors. This recognition places the Rust College athletes among the top 49 small-school HBCU players honored this season.
 
"This is a tremendous accomplishment for Kyrent, Malik, and Shamaar—and for the entire Rust College program," said Head Coach John Bates. "They worked hard all season, and these national honors are well earned."
All three athletes have been critical contributors to the Bearcats' success this year:
  • Kyrent Cole, a dynamic second baseman, boosted his offensive production and defensive consistency, earning additional All-HBCUAC First Team honors earlier this season.

  • Malik Berrien, a veteran outfielder, earned All-HBCUAC First Team honors, and also captured Player of the Week recognition for March 17–23.

  • Shamaar Stapleton, a standout outfielder, earned All-HBCUAC Second Team honors following a powerful and consistent offensive campaign.

For more information on Rust College Baseball and updates on the season, visit rustathletics.com or follow us on social media:

• Instagram: @rustcollegeathletics
• Twitter: @RCBearcats
• Contact:
Rust College Athletics
(662) 252‑8000
athletics@rustcollege.edu