Northwest Wayne News

Wayne State University men's basketball team, under the leadership of third-year head coach Bryan Smothers, has announced the addition of four new players for the 2024-25 season. The recruits include graduate transfer Jon Brantley from Lafayette College, junior college forward Carlos Paul III from Missouri State - West Plains, freshman guard Jakobie Boose from Flint Hamady High School, and junior college forward/center Kelvin Tamakloe from Blinn Community College.

Coach Smothers emphasized a strategic approach to recruitment. "With this recruiting class we wanted to really be specific and address the needs of our team, not just amass the most talent possible," he stated. "Each new student-athlete added to our program complements the guys we have returning from last season."

Jon Brantley brings extensive experience as a four-year Division 1 player with two years of eligibility remaining due to COVID-19 and a medical redshirt. Brantley, who earned his bachelor's degree in Policy Studies from Lafayette College, averaged 2.4 points per game in seven contests during the 2023-24 season. "Jon will bring experience and maturity to our team," said Smothers.

Carlos Paul III comes off a strong performance at Missouri State-West Plains where he was named to the All-Region 16 Second Team. He averaged 10.8 points and 4.7 rebounds per game in the previous season. Coach Smothers noted Paul's versatility and physicality as key attributes that will benefit the team.

Freshman Jakobie Boose joins Wayne State after a successful high school career at Flint Hamady High School where he scored over 1,300 points. Boose averaged 20 points, seven rebounds, and five assists per game as a senior. "Jakobie adds great size and athleticism to the guard position," commented Smothers.

Kelvin Tamakloe rounds out the group with his impressive stats at Blinn Community College where he helped lead his team to a 23-8 record last season. He averaged nine points per game as a senior in high school and earned Second Team All-SWAC honors. "Kelvin provides size and physicality," said Smothers.

These additions are expected to strengthen Wayne State's roster significantly for the upcoming season.

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