The Eagles enter the 2019-2020 season coming off of a 15-16 record last season.
This year?s team will build off the four sophomores from last years? team, Brandon Hardin (Clarksville, IN), Cedric Baldwin (Beavercreek), Rondell Clark (Africentric) and AJ Ferguson (Richmond). Coach Clements added two transfers and six freshmen. The Eagles look to improve upon last season and become a more defensive minded team that looks to push the ball.
?We look forward to having a strong big man core to protect the paint and set the defensive tone for the team,? says head coach Anthony Clements. Jawuun Bailey (Middletown) is a 6?7? first-year forward who will be a strong contributor for the Eagles. Bailey brings height, length, and athleticism to the Clark State post play. His older brother Jomar Bailey is poised for a breakout season, as the 6?7? forward is growing into his body and showing how capable of a rim protector he can be.
In addition to floor-general Hardin, the frontcourt will be led by freshman guards, Mike Wallace (Springfield), Nasir Tucker (Bexley) and Trey Dunn (Catholic Central). Transfers Ronnell Turner (Northwest), Mike Mitchell (Toledo Scott) and Jacob Collins (Northwest) will push the tempo and command the offense in the half court. ?We are very talented and deep across the board,? Baldwin says. ?I feel with this group of guys we have in the locker room we have competitors.?
The Eagles are focused on becoming a tougher team both physically and mentally. Brandon Hardin sums up the Eagles? expectations best: ?As long as everyone plays their role, plays hard, and we all stay together through adversity, we can be number one in our conference.?
The Eagles open up their season at 7:30 p.m. Monday, November 4 at Tiffin University JV, and will have their home opener the following Monday, November 11 at 7:30 p.m. vs. Cedarville University JV.
Key Returners: #3 Brandon Hardin, #10 Cedric Baldwin #11 Rondell Clark, #50 AJ Ferguson
Key Newcomers: #4 Jacob Collins, #5 Ronnell Turner, #12 Joseph Timmons, #14 Mike Mitchell, #20 Mike Wallace, #23 Nasir Tucker, #24 Davin Miller, #30 Trey Dunn, #33 Devin Reed