Updated Bona roster

[kccgold]

Chuck or anyone else- I’m very intrigued by Lajae Jones, could you give me a player comparison in college or pros that you think he might similar to?

He doesn’t have to be as good or anything, I’m not gonna hold you to it, I just wonder stylistically what to expect. “Point forward” hasn’t really been a thing under Schmidt often

[Chuck]

May 18, 2024 9:10:20 GMT -5 ohs73 said:

I just hope that these newbies, esp the frontliners, can shoot the damn ball. Fg accuracy was a sore spot last season.

Shooting looks promising with 4 "newbies." Do not remember any of the players on this year's team having jump shot as being a strength of their game. Following is 3 point shooting percentage in the year prior to Bona.
Mika 36.6%
Chuck 37.0%
Daryl 36.7%
Moses 36.1%
Kyrell 35.5%

This season 3 point shooting percentages.
Jonah Hinton 39.7%. Schmidt said following about Jonah, "he can really shoot the ball from deep."
Lajae Jones 42.2%. Schmidt "he's someone that can get a bucket in a lot of different ways." One of those ways is shooting 3s as he led his team in 3 point FG% and was 2nd in made 3s.

Strength of Ebrahim Kaba’s game is shooting. Has following comments about his shooting ability.
— Often described as a “6’9” sharpshooter.”
— “He’s a big guard with NBA range.”
— “Kaba has proven to be a strong perimeter shooter.”
— Has “ability to score and shoot the basketball with exceptional range.”

Do not have any stats or comments to share with you about Duane’s 3 point shot, but watching him during pickup games, workouts and practices I strongly believe jump shooting is a strength of his game.

www.sports-reference.com/cbb/schools/st-bonaventure/men/2024.html
www.oleantimesherald.com/sbu/sports/bona-lands-long-sharpshooter-in-nj-s-kaba/article_6be6fecc-6258-11ee-9067-87eaff0c6929.html

[ohs73]

Good stuff, Chuck. I read OTH article about the '24 recruits and Schmidt was complementary of each for their shotmaking abilities. The backcourt ought to be much stronger.

I look forward to what Thompson, Rose and Kaba can bring to the table.

I know defence and boardwork are important, but Lord does Bona need accurate shooters.

[Chuck]

May 19, 2024 18:13:02 GMT -5 kccgold said:

I’m very intrigued by Lajae Jones, could you give me a player comparison in college or pros that you think he might similar to?

Like you I'm very intrigued with Lajae. His build reminds me of Dion Wright. As for his game, best example I can think of at the moment (a player we all know) is Tyler Burton, except Lajae has much better 3 point shooting accuracy. Attached is a video of Lajae’s game. After watching this video, you probably can think of a better example than mine with Burton.

www.youtube.com/watch?v=ggTlUQ6b9Ts

[bonniefanatic508]

Chuck,
Any news on any new players they are recruiting? any bigs?

[Sipowicz]

Sbunfurled is reporting Rochester native and former Wagner combo guard and 1st Team All-NEC 6-4 MELVIN COUNCIL JR will be visiting BONAS this week. COUNCIL averaged 15 points, 6 rebounds, & 3.5 assists in 36 MPG last year.

[bonniefanatic508]

May 19, 2024 19:24:45 GMT -5 Sipowicz said:

Sbunfurled is reporting Rochester native and former Wagner combo guard and 1st Team All-NEC 6-4 MELVIN COUNCIL JR will be visiting BONAS this week. COUNCIL averaged 15 points, 6 rebounds, & 3.5 assists in 36 MPG last year.

Big guard from Rochester! Loves to attack the rim and gets downhill! NCAA playing experience this past season! Solid game against Howard in the play-in, dropped 18 on UNC, good game against Providence early in the year and 21 at Fordham! Would love to add him to our new athletic roster! Rebounds well for a guard too!

m.youtube.com/watch?v=i6CioEbUcxE
wagnerathletics.com/sports/mens-basketball/roster/melvin-council-jr-/14743

[Chuck]

Potential depth chart
C Noel Brown (Sr.)
PF Duane Thompson (Fr.) Lajae Jones (Jr.) Ebrahim Kaba (Fr.)
SF Lajae Jones (Jr.) Chance Moore (Jr.) Jaxon Edwards (Jr.)
SG Jonah Hinton (So.) Miles Rose (Fr.)
PG Dasonte Bowen (Jr.) Jonah Hinton (So.)

— 6’6” Jaxon Edwards: very athletic, solid rebounder for his size and excels at blocking shots. At Valparaiso started 21 of 31 games, averaged 24.8 minutes a game and 7.3 ppg. Much better scorer from 2s. Made 43.8% of his shots from 2s, but struggled with shooting 3s making 32.4%. Valpo lists Jaxon as a guard, but his stats suggests his game is more suited for forward position. With 22 three pointers had least 3s made among Vapo's top 7 players. Schmidt "Jaxon is a long, athletic scoring wing. He's another guy that really fits our up-tempo style of play well," Bonnies head coach Mark Schmidt said. "Jaxon is a good defender and is an impactful rebounder from the wing position. We are looking forward to having another experienced player in the program for a couple years."

— 6’3” Jonah Hinton: combo guard for 14th ranked Panola JUCO. Picked his game up during 2nd half of season. Leading scorer during conference games averaging 16.0 ppg (it is rare to see a freshman leading JUCO team in scoring). His jump shot is the strength of his game with 45%.of Jonah’s points coming from behind the arc (255 of 567). Impressive 39.7% three point shooting. Led his team in both 3 pointers made and 3 point percentage. There are videos of him shooting off logos in games. He is a SG, who gets to the line averaging 3.2 free throws a game. In comparison, Mika was 2nd for Bona in free throw attempts and averaged 2.9 free throw attempted per game. Can play both guard positions as he played the point in high school. In JUCO had just 19 less assists than the starting PG. Schmidt “Jonah is a combo guard who can score in a variety of ways. He can really shoot the ball from deep. Jonah has a chance to be an All-Conference type player in our league. We are really excited to add Jonah to the Bonnies backcourt.”
— 6’3” PG Dasonte Bowen: another big time recruit with 11 P-6 offers. As a sophomore started first 8 games for Iowa. Suffered from lingering knee injury during season. With injured knee was 2nd player off the bench for a talented Iowa team. Had season ending knee surgery, with last game played on February 14. Strength of his game is being a playmaker with a very impressive 3.07 A/TO ratio. WGT pointed out there was only 1 player in A-10 with a better A/TO ratio. Shooting percentage from inside the arc (43.8%) but really struggled from 3s (22.2%). Dasonte knows 3 point shooting is a weakness as he attempted only 18 for the season. Reported to be a solid man defender. Schmidt "Dasonte is a quick guard and open court attacker. "He played and started games at the high major level for two years. We see Dasonte pairing well with Jonah Hinton, playing in the backcourt together for the next couple years.”

Recruiting has been different in the 3 seasons since the transfer portal.
— Most of first season’s players were from low D-1; 2 stars (Daryl and Moses), 2 all conference freshmen (Tyrell and Anquan) untapped potential (Chad) and 1 high mid major with minimal PT (Max). Also had 3 freshmen (Yann, Anouar and Brett). Result 14-18 record.
—2nd season had a mix with 4 year high major starter (Mika) low major all time great (Chuck) and 2 red shirt freshmen (Duane and Miles). Result 20-13 record.

This season lacks any high scoring players from low majors. Recruiting class consists of high scorers are from JUCO (Lajae and Jonah), a productive high major and initial starter until injuries (Dasonte) low major starters (Chance 10.7 ppg and Jaxson 7.3 ppg) and just 1 freshman (Ebrahim).

The only trend is declining number of freshmen from 3, 2 and now just 1. The only college stars on this team were stars at JUCO. What will be impact of JUCO players (Schmidt didn’t have JUCOs last 2 seasons)? Will another freshman be signed? With just 1 returning player can Bonnies get 20 wins? Looks like the upcoming season will be a very intriguing one.

A big need is another “big” who can play center and PF.

[Chuck]

Melvin Council Jr. was 2023 JUCO 1st Team All American. I was surprised to see him listed with a former a Bonnie and 2 players recruited by the Bonnies.

All 3 players had impressive 2024 season with very talented teams.
— AJ Vasquez (11.1 ppg for UAB, played in NCAA tournament).
— Don McHenry (leading scorer 15.1 ppg for W. Kentucky, played in NCAA tournament).
— Kesean Pryor (13.0 ppg, 7.9 rpg for South Florida won AAC, Florida Atlantic was 2nd).

Kevin Houston is the only Bonnie, I can think of who was a 1st team JUCO All American. He did pretty well as a Bonnie. All for having two 1st team JUCO All Americans on the roster with Lajeae Jones and Melvin Council Jr.

www.njcaa.org/sports/mbkb/2022-23/div1/all-americans/index
miamihurricanes.com/roster/kevin-houston-2/

[bonawolf02]

I think Council would be a really solid get for the Bonnies. There's not a ton left out there that would make an impact. Lots of unknowns with the make-up of the current roster. I'd say if things hold as-is, we're looking at a bottom 4 preseason A10 ranking. Obviously has no indication of final finish, but I have to say expectations for the season will be largely muted.

I feel like there are some good pieces in place, just not sure there's 2-3 all-league players on the roster to make an impact at the top of the standings. Teams typically need a few all-league players to make a run.

Hopeful - just not seeing a ton that gets me all that excited. Could all change with a few additions that moves the needle - Council would be a great start.

Go Bonas!

[coach]

May 19, 2024 8:06:00 GMT -5 Chuck said:

Next 3 players
— 6’9” Ebrahim Kaba: recruiting took off after impressive tournament in Atlanta at end of June, averaging 28.5 ppg & 8.6 rpg. This performance earned following from Made Hoops “is in strong consideration to jump into the Top-150 of our rankings.” Is described as a 6’9” sharpshooter. Last 6 months has been developing his game at IMG Academy in Florida. Schmidt "He's an athletic, highly skilled scoring wing who can really rebound," Schmidt said. "He fits our system and is a great kid who has been well coached. He has a tremendous shot with range; he can knock down the three. We are looking forward to getting him on campus and welcoming him into our program."

— 6’7” LaJae Jones: by far Bonas’ highest ranked JUCO signing (7th in nation), 2nd team JUCO All American, MVP of national JUCO tournament (Jonathan Hall was the MVP of the 2008 JUCO tournament and he became a star for Bona). Led Barton in scoring, rebounding, block shots, FG%, 3s FG% and made foul shots. Has solid game from both inside and outside. Very impressive shooting from 2s (54%) and 3s (42.2%). Very effective in getting to the line. Averages 4.4 FTA per game, higher than any Bonnie last season. Barton won national JUCO championship and lost just 1 game the entire season. Barton was the #1 seed for the tournament. Schmidt "Lajae is a highly skilled, scoring forward. He's someone that can get a bucket in a lot of different ways. He is position flexible as well; we see him some in the point forward role. He's going to be a tremendous player for us for two years.”

— 6’5” Chance Moore: Big time recruit out of high school with 14 P-6 offers. ESPN 4 star recruit, 84th ranked player, Sports Illustrated All-American finalist and McDonald’s All-American nominee. Signed with Arkansas, but saw minimal PT and transferred to Missouri State. Averaged 10.7 ppg at Missouri State. Considering he is only 6’5” Chance is a solid player inside the arc with his shooting, rebounding and block shots. Very impressive making 54.6% of his 2 . Among starters, only Yann had a better FG% at 55.3% from 2 point shots. Impressive in getting to the line as he attempted 4.5 FTA per game, which is more than any Bonnie last season (must be solid driver to the basket). Despite solid game inside, he attempted more 3 pointers than 2 pointers and struggled making just 29.5% from 3s. Schmidt "Chance has been a very productive player at a good level for the last couple years. He is ready to make an immediate impact for us in the fall. Chance fits our up and down style well.  We can't wait to get him in a Bonnies uniform." 

Linton Brown was a 14 ranked juco player in 2021-never really produced due to covid or something-NOT sure. .
All we can do is hope that these players buy into the system, develop, and stay for at least 2 years.

I think the staff should go after international players - The market for NIL deals, as they're called, has exploded, bringing in an estimated $1 billion annually. But international student athletes have yet to be included in lucrative deals due to visa laws.
That would help in today's College basketball salary cap. Ugh. Then, in small writing make them sign to stay for 3 years. LOL. College hoops is over. NBA players stay on teams longer than the new college basketball NIL portal. It's hard to keep up with incoming players and you have to follow them when they leave to see if they develop. Also, these players transferring 3-4 times in 4 years really getting an education?? Last I knew a lot of credits didn't transfer from school to school so many most likely do not earn a degree. Ugh. Whatever.

[ceharv]

I will feel better about ‘24-25 when I see a name in that blank space at Center next to Brown. It may be wishful thinking but I would be ok with an old-school developmental big who’d be a candidate to start next year.
Also, just to nitpick, I think Kaba was recruited as a shooting guard, so I think he belongs at SG or maybe SF rather than at PF.
I am hoping for a big week to fill some of the open ‘ships.

[ceharv]

As of 2 PM of May 29, this update suddenly needs a serious update.
And now as of 4 PM, even more so. WHAT A DAY!

[Chuck]

Potential depth chart (11 players)
C Noel Brown (Sr.) Michael Folarin (Jr.)
PF Duane Thompson (Fr.) Lajae Jones (Jr.) Ebrahim Kaba (Fr.)
SF Lajae Jones (Jr.) Chance Moore (Jr.) Jaxon Edwards (Jr.)
SG Melvin Council Jr. (Sr.) Jonah Hinton (So.) (Miles Rose (Fr.)
PG Dasonte Bowen (Jr.) Jonah Hinton (So.)

— 6’4” Melvin Council Jr. is a physical and athletic SG. His game is taking it to the basket. Very effective scoring on drives and creating open shots for teammates. Rebounding and getting to the free throw line are 2 parts of his game where Melvin excels. At 6’4” is Wagner’s leading rebounder (187 rebounds) in comparison 6’10” Chad had (153). Melvin made (92) free throws while Chad led Bonnies with (90). Melvin stepped up his game during conference games and especially during the post season. For conference games, is listed in an impressive 10 categories; 4th in scoring with (16.1 ppg) FG% 10th, rebounding 5th, FT% 4th, FT 6th, FTA 7th, assists 7th, assists/TO 5th , block shots 10th, steals 13th. In the 2 NCAA games Melvin scored 39 points (21 and 18). 3 point shooting is a struggle making just 26.5% of his 3s. He must know it is a weakness as he is 4th among starters in attempted 3s. Among starters has the 2nd best percentage from 2 point shots at 42.5%. Melvin has a very impressive overall game with both offense and defense.

“Schmidt "Melvin is a long, athletic scoring guard who can put the ball in the basket at all three levels. His explosiveness in the open court will create problems for the opposing defense. Melvin is also a tremendous rebounder for his position. We are excited to add a player with his experience. He enjoyed great success last season at Wagner, both individually and with the team's run to the NCAA Tournament.  We are counting on another successful experience with an alum of the Northeast Conference." 

— 6’11” 230 pound Michael Folarin is a good size center. Andrew arrived at Bona as a 215 pound freshman and built himself up to 240 pounds as a senior. Michael is a very impressive athlete with a 38” vertical and setting his school record in the 100 meter hurdles. Also has a 7’4” wing span. Ranked #1 center in Arizona's 2021 class. As a freshman had minimal PT at Eastern Washington. Transferred to Nevada. Sustained a preseason injury that forced him to sit out the season and red-shirt.

At Salt Lake CC (#3 ranked JUCO team with 30-4 record). During conference games averaged 8.8 ppg (6th on team), 6.7 rpg (2nd) and best field goal percentage on team at 58.5%. Stats were influenced with him barely playing half the game (17.5 minutes) while splitting time with 4 bigs (7’1”, 6’11”, 6’11’ and 6’9”) who all had significant playing time. 3 of the bigs (including Michael) were among the top 6 scorers for the team. Elevated his game in last month of season. In last 8 games had 4 double digit games (21,17, 12 and 14 points). With 14 points was second leading scorer in Salt Lake’s last game. Videos display a game similar to Barry Evans. Extreme athlete who excels close to basket with high rising dunks. Like Barry has high FG% and impressive rebounding totals. Videos are dominated by impressive dunks, but also displays he can score on the low blocks with his back to basket. With his size and athleticism, Michael has a lot of untapped potential, which needs development. At Bona both Chad and Noel had impressive improvement with their low post game. Waiting for comments from Schmidt about Michael’s game. His coach at Eastern Washington stated “we are excited to have a player with Michael's talent and ceiling coming into our program. He's long, quick, and has a hunger to develop his game.”

[Chuck]

Will Schmidt sign another player? In an interview Schmidt stated he doesn’t like having a lot of players on the bench, as 12th and 13th players get frustrated with lack of playing time. Looking at roster Schmidt could use another "big" and another guard with a solid 3 point stroke.
-- The 2 bigs at PF are 6’8” Duane Thompson a very slender 205 pounds and 6’9” Kaba who is described as being rail thin. His game is mentioned as being a small forward or an extremely tall shooting guard.
-- Jonah Hinton is the only guard, who has solid shooting stats from behind the arc.

17 years at Bona, Schmidt has used all 13 scholarships just once. It is doubtful Schmidt will use all 13 scholarships. Difficult to decide, which is the bigger need another big or another guard with a solid 3 point stroke?