2024-25 ASUN Basketball Preview
Conference Overview
Join us for our ASUN Basketball Preview as we discuss the upcoming season for a conference known for its competitive, high-scoring games. Last year’s ASUN tournament was thrilling, with nearly every game going down to the wire and featuring Stetson’s historic first NCAA tournament appearance. This year, the league promises to be competitive, showcasing high-quality offensive teams eager to make an impact.
Heading up the league is Lipscomb, which boasts a complete roster and multiple Player of the Year candidates. Jacksonville also returns a Player of the Year candidate in Robert McCray V, one of the most dynamic players in college basketball. North Alabama joins this group of top teams with arguably the best backcourt duo in the conference, bringing back a first-team all-conference player and welcoming a former ASUN standout back home.
In the middle of the pack, FGCU aims to compete, bringing back Keeshawn Kellman, who earned a sixth year of eligibility, along with impactful transfers. Austin Peay also returns center Sai Witt, expected to be one of the best players in the conference, alongside Division II standouts.
Despite losing key talent to the transfer portal, North Florida, Queens, and Eastern Kentucky field teams with important returners who can impact the league. Central Arkansas and Stetson both introduce new backcourts. Central Arkansas adds a dynamic duo of three-star freshmen competing for ASUN Freshman of the Year honors, while Stetson brings in a Division II star and a high-level JUCO scorer.
Conversely, Bellarmine returns their backcourt and hopes for impactful seasons. Lastly, West Georgia makes the jump to the ASUN from Division II, looking to stay competitive with a mix of returning players and JUCO standouts.
The 2024-25 ASUN Preview promises a competitive season in an offensive-minded, exciting conference.
ASUN Basketball Preview: Projected Standings
- Lipscomb
- Jacksonville
- North Alabama
- FGCU
- Austin Peay
- North Florida
- Queens
- Eastern Kentucky
- Central Arkansas
- Stetson
- Bellarmine
- West Georgia
ASUN Basketball Preview: Projected Award Winners
Player of the Year: Robert McCray V, Jacksonville
Defensive Player of the Year: Malcolm Wilson, Queens
Freshman of the Year: Layne Taylor, Central Arkansas
Newcomer of the Year: Daniel Ortiz, North Alabama
Coach of the Year: Lennie Acuff, Lipscomb
ASUN Basketball Preview: Projected All-Conference First Team
Jacari Lane, North Alabama
Will Pruitt, Lipscomb
Robert McCray, Jacksonville
Jacob Ognacevic, Lipscomb
Sai Witt, Austin Peay
Austin Peay Governors
PG: LJ Thomas (2.6 ppg, 1.1 rpg, 0.8 apg @ NC State)
SG: Isaac Haney (11.7 ppg, 4.1 rpg, 1.3 apg)
SF: Me’Kell Burries (13.6 ppg, 3.0 rpg, 1.8 apg @ D2 Lincoln Memorial)
PF: Darius Dawson (14.0 ppg, 6.4 rpg, 1.0 apg @ D2 Missouri Southern)
C: Sai Witt (12.8 ppg, 5.6 rpg, 0.7 apg)
6M: Anton Brookshire (4.2 ppg, 1.1 rpg, 0.4 apg @ Iona) *2022-2023 Stats*
Analysis
Austin Peay finished last season with a strong run to the ASUN Tournament Final, only to fall short in a loss to Stetson. This year, the Governors return two key players from that roster while turning to the transfer portal for reinforcements. Although the team lost graduates DeMarcus Sharp and Dezi Jones from the backcourt, Isaac Haney, who improved his shooting efficiency last season, will return and take on a larger scoring role. He will be joined by former 4-star recruit and NC State transfer LJ Thomas, who played sparingly last season but, as a highly-touted talent, is poised for a breakout year in the ASUN.
In the frontcourt, ASUN Sixth Man of the Year Sai Witt returns after a strong offensive showing down the stretch last season. Witt, who transferred from Division II, struggled to find consistent playing time early on but eventually became the Governors’ most productive player. The remaining starting spots will likely go to Division II transfers Me’Kell Burries and Darius Dawson, both strong three-point shooters expected to log significant minutes. Austin Peay’s biggest concerns are their defense and frontcourt depth. However, with the ASUN being an offense-oriented league, the Governors have built a roster capable of scoring consistently.
Bellarmine Knights
PG: Dezmond McKinney (5.3 ppg, 3.1 rpg, 2.1 apg)
SG: Ben Johnson (13.9 ppg, 3.4 rpg, 1.4 apg)
SF: Billy Smith (5.8 ppg, 1.5 rpg, 1.0 apg)
PF: Jack Karanski (7.1 ppg, 4.9 rpg, 1.1 apg @ William & Mary)
C: Curt Hopf (6.2 ppg, 3.3 rpg, 0.5 apg) *2022-2023 Stats*
6M: Myles Watkins (18.2 ppg, 4.8 rpg, 2.5 apg @ Pasadena CC)
Analysis
After an impressive start in their Division I transition, including a conference title, Bellarmine has slowed down over the past two years. Now, they aim to rebound in their first year of NCAA Tournament eligibility. Leading the charge will be their top returning scorer, Ben Johnson, a solid outside shooter who is expected to handle much of the scoring for the Knights this season. Dezmond McKinney will complement Johnson in the backcourt; while McKinney is a strong defender, he needs to improve his offensive efficiency to be successful in the ASUN.
Returner Billy Smith, projected to start as a shooter, also needs to make strides on defense, as he was one of the least efficient defenders in all of college basketball last season. The lone transfer in the projected starting lineup, Jack Karanski from William & Mary, contributed offensively but struggled defensively before an injury ended his season. Curtis Hopf, set to get the most minutes at center, is returning after redshirting last season due to injury. He aims to follow up his strong 2022 season and become a key contributor for Bellarmine. Off the bench, Myles Watkins will be a player to watch as an offensive option.
Central Arkansas Bears
PG: Layne Taylor (FR)
SG: Ty Robinson (FR)
SF: Javion Guy-King (7.2 ppg, 3.2 rpg, 2.0 apg)
PF: Elias Cato (11.9 ppg, 6.1 rpg, 1.0 apg)
C: Ubongabasi Etim (5.4 ppg, 7.5 rpg, 0.6 apg)
6M: Diogo Seixas (3.5 ppg, 1.2 rpg, 0.6 apg @ San Jose State)
Analysis
Central Arkansas has faced a tough stretch of losses, but the arrival of coach John Shulman, who has had proven success with a strong Division II program, is a positive sign for the team’s future. The Bears’ top returning scorer, Elias Cato, is expected to lead the team in scoring again this season, especially after improving his three-point shooting, which he may look to utilize even more. In the frontcourt, fellow returner Ubongabasi Etim, a reliable rim protector, will provide stability down low, though improving his offensive game will be crucial this season. Javion Guy-King, another returner, is set to log the most minutes at the wing and will focus on enhancing his shot selection.
The backcourt gets a completely fresh look with the addition of two promising freshmen, Layne Taylor and Ty Robinson. Both are three-star recruits with the potential to significantly impact the team, especially on offense. Taylor, Central Arkansas’ highest-rated recruit ever, and Robinson are excellent scorers who should bring much-needed firepower to the squad. Adding depth off the bench will be San Jose State transfer Diogo Seixas, who has room to grow and contribute.
Eastern Kentucky Colonels
PG: Turney Buttry (5.3 ppg, 1.1 rpg, 1.0 apg)
SG: Jordan Crawford (4.7 ppg, 0.8 rpg, 0.6 apg @ Charleston)
SF: Devontae Blanton (14.0 ppg, 5.3 rpg, 2.5 apg)
PF: Tyler Andrews (4.7 ppg, 1.8 rpg, 0.4 apg @ Kansas City)
C: DJ Nussbaum (6.8 ppg, 3.8 rpg, 0.6 apg @ VMI)
6M: George Kimble III (19.4 ppg, 3.1 rpg, 4.6 apg @ D2 Eckerd)
Analysis
Eastern Kentucky had a strong season, earning the top seed in the conference, but their campaign ended in disappointment with a first-round loss in last year’s ASUN Tournament. Looking to bounce back, the Colonels will rely heavily on one of the best scorers in the conference, Devontae Blanton.
A veteran presence, Blanton has been with the Colonels his entire career and, despite a down year compared to his stellar 2022 season, remains the most proven player on the team and will be counted on to carry the load. In the backcourt, returner Turner Buttry is projected to be the starting point guard. Buttry excelled offensively and is a strong three-point shooter, but at 5’11, he will need to improve his defense.
Joining him is Charleston transfer Jordan Crawford, who played limited minutes last season but should see an expanded role on a Colonels team eager to strengthen their backcourt. Division II transfer George Kimble III is another player to watch, as he could potentially emerge as a starter depending on Buttry and Crawford’s performances. In the frontcourt, Kansas City transfer Tyler Andrews and VMI transfer DJ Nussbaum bring defensive solidity. Andrews adds toughness, while Nussbaum brings experience to a frontcourt that will need to replace last season’s breakout star, Isaiah Cozart.
FGCU Eagles
PG: Rahmir Barno (4.7 ppg, 2.0 rpg, 2.5 apg)
SG: Dallion Johnson (10.8 ppg, 3.2 rpg, 1.0 apg)
SF: Zavian McLean (9.2 ppg, 3.0 rpg, 1.8 apg @ Columbia)
PF: Jevin Muniz (14.9 ppg, 3.7 rpg, 3.0 apg @ Delaware State)
C: Keeshawn Kellman (12.2 ppg, 7.0 rpg, 0.9 apg)
6M: Michael Duax (3.8 ppg, 2.5 rpg, 0.6 apg @ Northern Iowa)
Analysis
FGCU is set to return a mix of key players and impact transfers, forming a well-rounded lineup that could make noise in the ASUN this season. Leading the frontcourt is sixth-year senior Keyshawn Kellman, a former Princeton transfer who remains one of the top big men in the conference and brings valuable experience. He will be joined by Delaware State transfer Jevin Muniz, who is making the jump from the MEAC and is a solid athlete and defender.
In the backcourt, returner Dallion Johnson aims to replicate his efficient three-point shooting from last season. FGCU boosts its shooting power with Columbia transfer Zavian McLean, who had his best season last year. Sophomore Rahmir Barno, an ASUN All-Freshman Team selection, is projected to take over point guard duties and could have a breakout season. Additionally, watch for Northern Iowa transfer Michael Duax, who averaged double digits in scoring in 2022 and has the potential to contribute significantly.This combination of experience, shooting, and emerging talent makes FGCU a team to watch in the ASUN.
Jacksonville Dolphins
PG: Jakari Spence (6.7 ppg, 3.0 rpg, 3.8 apg @ Monmouth)
SG: Marcus Niblack (10.2 ppg, 3.7 rpg, 2.6 apg)
SF: Robert McCray V (18.4 ppg, 4.2 rpg, 2.9 apg)
PF: Zimi Nwokeji (2.4 ppg, 1.0 rpg, 0.1 apg @ Dayton)
C: Stephon Payne III (7.3 ppg, 6.1 rpg, 0.8 apg)
6M: Kendall Munson (6.5 ppg, 4.2 rpg, 0.5 apg @ Portland State)
Analysis
Jacksonville made an impressive run in the conference tournament, knocking off top-seeded Eastern Kentucky and advancing to the semifinals, where they narrowly lost to eventual champions Stetson by one point. Robert McCray V was a standout performer, scoring 31, 24, and 36 points across three games, establishing himself as one of the most exciting players to watch. McCray returns as a top candidate for Player of the Year. He’ll be joined by fellow returner Marcus Niblack, who shot well from three last season.
Monmouth transfer Jakari Spence is expected to lead the point, bringing solid passing skills, while Stephon Payne III provides rim protection and scoring in the frontcourt. The biggest question mark is Dayton transfer Zimi Nwokeji, who hasn’t played significant minutes since the 2020 season but could offer upside as a former player from a high-level program. Jacksonville’s core group of returners, led by McCray, along with the addition of Spence, should position the Dolphins near the top of the conference standings.
Lipscomb Bisons
PG: Joe Anderson (8.4 ppg, 2.9 rpg, 4.4 apg)
SG: Will Pruitt (15.1 ppg, 6.0 rpg, 3.1 apg)
SF: Gyasi Powell (9.0 ppg, 2.5 rpg, 1.8 apg @ Jacksonville)
PF: Jacob Ognacevic (17.7 ppg, 4.4 rpg, 0.6 apg) *2022-2023 Stats*
C: Dylan Faulkner (6.2 ppg, 3.9 rpg, 0.4 apg)
6M: Kellan Boylan (7.2 ppg, 5.0 rpg, 2.1 apg @ Air Force)
Analysis
Lipscomb returns one of the most complete teams in the conference and is expected to be a favorite to top the standings. Leading the way is Player of the Year candidate Will Pruitt, an excellent long-range shooter who made significant strides last season. Joe Anderson, a former Furman transfer, also returns after a strong year at point guard. He will continue to facilitate the offense at a high level. Projected as the third guard is Jacksonville transfer Gyasi Powell, who needs to bounce back after a down year in shooting efficiency.
The biggest X-factor for the Bisons is Jacob Ognacevic, who was one of the league’s best players in 2023 before missing all of last season due to injury. Pairing him with Pruitt gives Lipscomb two potential Player of the Year candidates. Rounding out the projected starting five is Dylan Faulkner, a potential breakout player. Also worth watching is Air Force transfer Kellan Boylan, though his status is uncertain as he’s coming off an injury and may not play this season.
North Alabama Lions
PG: Jacari Lane (14.7 ppg, 3.0 rpg, 2.8 apg)
SG: Daniel Ortiz (6.6 ppg, 1.4 rpg, 0.8 apg @ UAB)
SF: Will Soucie (7.1 ppg, 3.0 rpg, 1.2 apg)
PF: Dallas Howell (8.4 ppg, 5.3 rpg, 0.6 apg)
C: Corneilous Williams (3.5 ppg, 3.0 rpg, 0.1 apg @ Western Carolina)
6M: Canin Jefferson (2.9 ppg, 0.8 rpg, 1.0 apg)
Analysis
The Lions will boast one of the best backcourt duos in the conference, returning All-ASUN First Team selection Jacari Lane alongside UAB transfer Daniel Ortiz. While Lane and Ortiz may face a height disadvantage on defense when playing together, their offensive potential makes them a formidable pairing, as both are among the most dynamic guards in the conference. Longtime Lion Will Soucie returns for a fifth year and will once again provide reliable three-point shooting from the wing.
The frontcourt sees the addition of Western Carolina transfer Corneilous Williams, who will bring much-needed defensive prowess to the projected starting five. Rounding out the lineup is Dallas Howell, who had a strong shooting performance last season. North Alabama should have no trouble scoring, relying heavily on the production from their two guards. However, despite the league’s offense-oriented style, the team’s defensive capabilities remain a significant concern.
North Florida Ospreys
PG: Ametri Moss (10.8 ppg, 3.4 rpg, 3.0 apg)
SG: Jaylen Smith (6.5 ppg, 1.4 rpg, 2.4 apg)
SF: Jasai Miles (5.7 ppg, 4.2 rpg, 0.8 apg)
PF: Nate Lliteras (10.4 ppg, 4.2 rpg, 1.2 apg)
C: Nestor Dyachok (1.8 ppg, 0.6 rpg, 0.4 apg @ Southern Utah)
6M: Liam Murphy (7.3 ppg, 3.0 rpg, 0.8 apg @ Columbia) *2022-2023 Stats*
Analysis
The Ospreys will face a challenge this season as they lose one of the best shooters in the ASUN, Chaz Lanier, but they return a group of experienced players. Known for their identity as a team that relies heavily on three-point shooting, the Ospreys will need greater consistency from their returners to maintain this style of play.
One consistent performer is Nate Lliteras, who will be counted on for a significant portion of the scoring. Ametri Moss, coming off an injury, is expected to be the starting point guard upon his return and had a solid offensive season for the Ospreys. ASUN All-Freshman Team honoree Jaylen Smith will also return, and while he is a candidate for more minutes, he must improve his shooting efficiency.
Similarly, fellow sophomore Jasai Miles will need to enhance his three-point shooting to meet the team’s needs for success. Rounding out the projected starting five is Southern Utah transfer Nestor Dyachok, who can stretch the floor at the center position and may share time with freshman Josh Harris. Additionally, Liam Murphy, a transfer from Columbia who missed all of last season due to injury, could prove to be a valuable asset, as he demonstrated his scoring ability in the Ivy League.
Queens Royals
PG: DJ Shine (FR)
SG: Chris Ashby (9.7 ppg, 0.7 rpg, 0.7 apg)
SF: Bryce Cash (7.8 ppg, 4.3 rpg, 2.0 apg)
PF: Leo Colimerio (6.7 ppg, 3.8 rpg, 1.2 apg @ Fresno State)
C: Malcolm Wilson (1.6 ppg, 2.9 rpg, 0.2 apg)
6M: Nasir Mann (7.5 ppg, 6.0 rpg, 0.8 apg @ McNeese State)
Analysis
This Royals team is focused on achieving growth this season with their three returning players and the expected impact of a projected freshman starter and a highlight transfer. In the backcourt, Chris Ashby and All-Freshman Team honoree Bryce Cash are anticipated to take on leadership roles. Ashby is known as a knockdown three-point shooter but struggles defensively, ranking among the weakest defenders in the ASUN. Cash showed promise during his freshman year and has the potential to emerge as a breakout candidate. Projected starter DJ Shine will join them in the backcourt and has the potential to challenge for significant playing time.
The frontcourt is crucial for the Royals this season. Fresno State transfer Leo Colimerio, a former Mountain West starter, brings valuable experience and faces high expectations. Projected starting center Malcolm Wilson offers size and rim protection, though he has yet to break out despite time that included starts at Georgetown. With proper development from the returning players, the Royals could emerge as a sleeper team in the ASUN.
Stetson Hatters
PG: Mekhi Ellison (27.5 ppg, 5.0 rpg, 4.4 apg @ Mott Community College)
SG: Blaize Sagna (20.8 ppg, 4.5 rpg, 2.0 apg @ D2 Minnesota Crookston)
SF: Tristan Gross (4.0 ppg, 1.9 rpg, 0.7 apg)
PF: Abramo Canka (0.5 ppg, 0.3 rpg, 0.1 apg @ Wake Forest)
C: Treyton Thompson (4.5 ppg, 4.0 rpg, 0.7 apg)
6M: Jordan Wood (1.1 ppg, 0.7 rpg, 0.2 apg @ Tulane)
Analysis
The Hatters come off a season in which they earned their first-ever bid to the NCAA tournament. However, they were hit hard by the transfer portal and will need to rebuild much of their roster. They return wing player Tristan Gross, who had a solid freshman season and will aim to make a leap this year with increased minutes. Also returning is center Treyton Thompson, who will provide strong defense at the five and has the ability to stretch the floor with his three-point shooting. Wake Forest transfer Abramo Canka is somewhat of an unknown, having not seen many minutes, but his experience at Power 5 programs like Wake Forest and UCLA could prove beneficial.
The main factor determining Stetson’s success this season will be their revamped backcourt. Division II standout Blaize Sagna arrives as a prolific scorer, looking to transition to Division I basketball successfully. Joining him is JUCO standout Mekhi Ellison, who demonstrated a knack for scoring at Mott Community College. The development and adjustment of both guards this season will be crucial in determining whether Stetson remains competitive or finds itself toward the bottom of the conference.
West Georgia Wolves
PG: Demetrus Johnson II (14.0 ppg, 4.0 rpg, 5.8 apg @ Highland CC)
SG: Kyric Davis (18.4 ppg, 8.4 rpg, 3.7 apg @ South Georgia State JUCO)
SF: Kolten Griffin (8.1 ppg, 6.7 rpg, 1.5 apg)
PF: Shelton Williams-Dryden (19.6 ppg, 9.4 rpg, 1.4 apg @ Milwaukee Area Tech)
C: Tamaury Releford (5.8 ppg, 4.7 rpg, 0.0 apg)
6M: Rickey Ballard (7.8 ppg, 4.1 rpg, 1.8 apg @ D2 Lynn)
Analysis
West Georgia makes the step up from Division II, having achieved massive success at that level. In the ASUN, past teams such as Bellarmine and Queens have thrived in their first years, and the Wolves aim to replicate that success. However, their roster is filled with question marks, as they have brought in non-Division I transfers to fill various roles. One of their standout players is JUCO transfer Kyric Davis, who scores at a high level and is a solid all-around performer.
Joining him in the backcourt is fellow JUCO player Demetrus Johnson II, known for his passing and defensive skills. Wing returnee Kolten Griffin brings experience with the Wolves’ system and is expected to see significant minutes while hoping for offensive development. The frontcourt will include returning player Tamaury Releford and another JUCO transfer, Shelton-Williams Dryden. The Wolves will rely on their Division II returners and three projected JUCO starters to form a cohesive unit capable of competing at the ASUN level.
Coming Next
Thank you for reading the 2024-25 ASUN Basketball Preview. To view the conference preview release schedule, keep up to date with us on X @collegehoopsrpt. If you haven’t already, feel free to check out one of our other conference previews linked below! Next up is the Atlantic 10 Conference. Thank you for reading, and we appreciate all the support!
Cover Image: Photo Credit: Atlantic Sun Conference (ASUN)
