Runnin Rebels Roster Taking Shape
Combination of strong recruiting class, Transfer Pickups, and productive returners dot the roster
Starters:
PG: DJ Thomas 6’1 – No brainer here, Thomas is the reigning Mountain West POY, started all 32 games and lead the Rebels in scoring and assists last season.
W: Jaden Henley 6’6 – Henley is a transfer pickup that averaged almost 9 per game at Depaul. He started his career at Minnesota where he shot almost 38% from three his freshman season.
F: Jalen Hill 6’7 – The Vegas native will be a site for sore eyes. The Rebels got bigger, which should allow Hill the opportunity to slide to the three. He’s one of the best rebounders in the Mountain West, look for him to take advantage of some mismatches down low.
F: Robert Whaley 6’6 – Whaley came on strong late last season. While he only averaged a little under 8 per game. He scored double figures in 8 Mountain West Contest, and put up a career high 21 in the NIT against Princeton.
C: Jerimiah Cherry 6’11 – The JUCO transfer is a terrific fit. He’s a massive 5 man that can score off direct post ups. and he’ll serve as a great screener for Thomas in P&R action. He’s coming off a season averaging almost 13 and 6 for a 23 win National JUCO program.
6th Man:
Isaiah Cottrell 6’11 C – Love the Rebels frontcourt versatility this season because of players like “Ice” His shooting is the perfect compliment to Cherry’s paint production, giving the Rebels a combination that has a chance to be one of the best in the Mountain West next season.
Reserves:
Brooklyn Hicks 6’2 CG – Don’t be surprised if Hicks makes a significant jump next season. He’s one of the hardest working players I saw last season, routinely getting to the gym before everyone, while working with assistant coach Dev Matthews. Like Whaley the combo came on late in the season, doubling his average in the NIT.
Jace Whiting 6’3 PG – Like the pickup of Whiting, as he provides the Rebels with some shooting to help make up for the loss of Justin Webster. He knocked down 50% of his threes last year for Mountain West foe Boise St in limited action.
James Evans 6’6 SF – The Rebels lack of wing depth, provides a perfect opportunity for Evans. The team will most certainly look to use a scholarship on the right wing transfer, however currently, Evans seems to be the best fit for the role. Evans is a good scorer that can jump out of the gym. The high flyer has an opportunity to step into a 3 and D role next season.
Bruce Williams is the Senior Regional Scout For PrephoopsNevada and the Editor and Chief of the Runnin Rebel Report.
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