Staying power within a conference is developed during the months when the cameras aren't turned on. Players are finding out their level of self-motivation, and coaches are making program decisions to improve their team. That process is underway across the nation, and the MEAC is no different.
Player Commitments
NC Central Eagles
- SG Brandon Goldsmith: He’s a 6’4 transfer from Walters State Community College that averaged 14 points and five rebounds per game. With the departure of backcourt mates Patrick Cole and Dajuan Graf, Goldsmith will compete to provide stability on the perimeter. He shot almost 50 percent from inside the arc, which will be an area of need for the Eagles.
- Guard Larry McKnight, Jr.: The 6’3 transfer from Palm Beach State should provide size, strength and shooting for the Eagles. He is a physical slasher that incorporates the mid-range game that should fit the style of play for NC Central. McKnight is an efficient scorer that can also step out and shoot it well from the arc, as shown by his 37 percent mark from downtown last season. He comes to NC Central with three years of eligibility.
Norfolk State Spartans
- Guard Nic Thomas: The Spartans picked up the 6’1 transfer from Howard College. Thomas should be a solid compliment to point guard Zaynah Robinson. He brings a shooter’s mentality to the Spartans that can replace the perimeter threat Jonathan Wade. Thomas averaged 13.8 point per game and shot 36 percent from three.
Bethune-Cookman Wildcats
- PG Malik Maitland - 5’11 transfer from Morehead State. A proven scorer during his high school career, Maitland is head coach Ryan Ridder’s first signee. He saw minimal action during his time at Morehead State, but provides much need backcourt depth and some experience.
Maryland Eastern Shore Hawks
- PG Cameron Bacote: The 6’1 guard comes from the home of Allen Iverson. Bacote played at Bethel High School and was the PenSouth Conference player of the year while leading his team to the state championship game. Head coach Bobby Collins feels as though Bacote could be the missing link that is absent from their program.
Coaching Hires
There will also be two new faces patrolling the sidelines this coming season. The Bethune-Cookman Wildcats will be lead by Ryan Ridder, who took control of the program on March 31st. He brings a strong academic and coaching pedigree to the Wildcats. Ridder should be able to recruit well as he knows the area from his days as the head coach at Daytona State College.
Coppin State scored a high profile hire in Juan Dixon as reported on April 22nd and made official on April 26th. Dixon becomes the seventh head coach in Eagles history, which has generated a buzz around the program. Dixon should have the ability to recruit well in his hometown of Baltimore, and his resume as a former hoops standout could help him sway recruits.