Exciting Moves in College Basketball: A Summer of Change
The world of college basketball is in full swing this summer, and for fans and coaches alike, the excitement is palpable. With new recruits, coaching changes, and international prospects, teams are shaping their rosters for the upcoming season. In this article, we explore significant recent developments, including St. John’s acquisition of Ruben Prey, new coaching hires at Villanova, and Josh Pace’s move to Old Dominion University.
St. John’s Welcomes Ruben Prey
In an exciting development, St. John’s basketball has finalized its 2024-25 roster with the addition of Ruben Prey, a promising 6-foot-10 power forward from Portugal. Prey made his commitment to join the Red Storm, and this move has been on the radar of the program for over a year. Head coach Rick Pitino emphasized the need for a power forward to complement the existing lineup as the season approaches.
The past month saw intensified efforts from the St. John’s coaching staff to ensure Prey maintained his amateur status amidst international competition and NCAA regulations. Throughout the past season, he participated in 46 games across various European leagues, averaging 5.9 points and 4.2 rebounds, showcasing his potential as both a scorer and rebounder. However, his shooting numbers from beyond the arc will need improvement to fit into Pitino’s system.
Prey trained at the 2023 Adidas Eurocamp, where he showed flashes of his talent, averaging 10 points and nearly 6 rebounds while competing against other elite prospects. He joins a formidable frontcourt that includes Zuby Ejiofor and transfers Vince Iwuchukwu and Aaron Scott, alongside freshman Khaman Maker. His entry also marks the second international talent on the roster, bringing depth and diverse playing styles to the squad.
Ruben Prey sets his sights on the upcoming season with St. John’s Red Storm.
Jamie Young Joins the Villanova Wildcats
In a recent press release, Villanova announced the hiring of Jamie Young as an assistant coach for their men’s basketball program. With over 24 years of coaching experience, Young’s background includes valuable time spent with the Boston Celtics and Philadelphia 76ers. Head coach Kyle Neptune expressed enthusiasm about the addition, stating that Young’s extensive coaching pedigree will significantly enhance the team’s development.
From 2021 to 2023, Young worked with the Sixers, contributing to team strategies and practice drills. Doc Rivers, under whom Young served, praised him as a high-character individual and noted his capacity to communicate effectively with players. Before joining the NBA ranks, Young honed his skills with the Celtics since 2001, initially serving as a video coordinator and advancing to an assistant coaching role.
Brad Stevens, Celtics’ President of Basketball Operations, commended Young’s work ethic and commitment to team dynamics, reinforcing the belief that Villanova has landed a remarkable coach in Young.
Villanova’s new coaching structure promises exciting developments for the Wildcats this season.
Josh Pace Takes on a New Role
Additionally, former Syracuse player Josh Pace has made headlines by resigning from his position as the head coach of Western New Mexico University’s women’s team to accept an assistant coaching role at Old Dominion University. Pace, a key player in Syracuse’s 2003 NCAA championship team, spent the last four years leading the D-II team, where his coaching journey has now propelled him to the D-I level.
Pace joins forces with DeLisha Milton-Jones at Old Dominion. Milton-Jones is a former Syracuse assistant herself and stepped into the role of head coach after her tenure at Pepperdine. In Syracuse, Pace was renowned for his crucial role as “the Glue Guy,” contributing significantly to the team’s success while averaging impressive stats during his college career.
During his five-year coaching stint at Western New Mexico, Pace acquired valuable experience, demonstrating his commitment to player development despite his team’s overall record. His transition to Old Dominion, where the women’s team recently finished with a commendable record and postseason appearance, signals an exciting opportunity for both him and the program.
Josh Pace embarks on a new chapter in his coaching career at Old Dominion University.
Conclusion: A Reimagined Landscape for College Basketball
As college basketball meticulously gears up for the 2024-25 season, these changes are a testimony to the dynamic nature of the sport. With new talents like Ruben Prey making their way into established programs and seasoned coaches like Jamie Young joining respected institutions, the landscape is set for an exhilarating year of basketball.
Meanwhile, Josh Pace’s ascent into a D-I coaching role underscores the potential for former players to impact the game from the sidelines. This flurry of activity is not just an ephemeral phase; it marks the ongoing evolution of college basketball as coaches and programs strive to capture the elusive championship success.
Engaged fans and analysts alike will have much to discuss as these stories unfold. Stay tuned for a thrilling season ahead!
