KANSAS CITY, Mo. – The NABC has announced the recipients of the 2026 NABC Guardians of the Game pillar awards. The awards are presented each year at the NABC Convention to coaches, administrators and contributors who embody the NABC's core values of leadership, service, education, advocacy, and inclusion.
 
"The NABC Guardians of the Game platform is a reflection of the impact coaches and industry leaders make on campuses and communities across the country," said NABC Executive Director Craig Robinson. "This year's recipients embrace that their jobs are about much more than basketball, and the NABC is honored to celebrate them with these prestigious Guardians of the Game awards."
 
Receiving the 2026 NABC Guardians of the Game award for Leadership is High Point University men's basketball assistant coach Ben Fletcher. Fletcher is in his first season as an assistant coach at High Point after previously holding assistant positions at South Florida, Kennesaw State and Troy. Last season, Fletcher assumed the role of interim head coach at South Florida following the unexpected passing of Amir Abdur-Rahim just weeks before the Bulls' first scheduled game. Fletcher helped South Florida's players, staff and campus community navigate the tragic circumstances while continuing to provide strong on-court leadership and skill development.

"No one is more deserving of this award than Coach Fletcher," Head Coach Flyn Clayman stated. "From my time playing at Troy when he was an assistant coach, to working alongside side me today, Coach Fletcher has shown that character and values are of the utmost importance for him. After the tragic passing of Coach Amir Abdur-Rahim just before the 2024-25 season, Coach Fletcher led the South Florida program in the most difficult of situations, with honor and dignity. He certainly deserves this recognition and Amir is certainly looking down on his friend very proud of the work he has done and continues to do for the next generation."
 
Since joining the Panthers for the 2025-26 season, Fletcher has continued to lead student-athletes during their collegiate journey. He has helped HPU compile a 27-4 overall record and a 15-1 Big South record, in route to High Point's third straight Big South Regular-Season Title – the most by a Big South member. Fletcher has played an integral role in the development of the Panthers defense helping HPU lead the country in steals per game (11.1) and turnover margin (7.5).

"To God be the Glory." Coach Fletcher exclaimed. "I am honored to be recognized by the NABC for such a prestigious award. I have been blessed to be around some of the best leaders in our game. This award will be shared amongst the staff that all showed up everyday in an effort to be the example for our student athletes."
 
High Point prepares to play the winner of the 8/9 seed in the Big South Quarterfinals on Friday, March 6 at 12:00 p.m. in Johnson City, Tenn.