The Howard men’s Basketball team has gone through a shake-up this summer with eight new additions to the roster, half of which are freshmen.

This freshman class is one of the more decorated and diverse classes that Kenneth Blakeney, coach of the men’s basketball team, has had in his time at Howard. Blakeney described them as “true freshmen with tremendous upside” in an article on Howard Athletics’ official website. 

Some come from local areas, some from across the country, and even across the Pacific Ocean. It is clear that Blakeney and his staff undoubtedly put in the time and effort during recruiting season.

Let’s take a look at who these players are and why they chose Howard University as their new home:

Jordan Atkins (South Orange, N.J./ Rutgers Prep) – 6-foot-2, Guard – Freshman 

With Atkins founding the first Black student union at Rutgers Prep, he is thrilled to be able to get involved with the numerous demonstrations that Howard, and D.C. in general, have to offer.

“Howard’s D.C. location presents a great opportunity to be involved in activism as it is a melting pot of different people and ideas. I look forward to fighting for social justice with my brothers on the basketball team, as they had a successful Black Maternal Health project last year,” Atkins said. “I believe that making a positive impact on someone’s life is one of the most powerful things you can do.” 

Quinton Booker (Alexandria, Va. / Bishop Ireton H.S.) – 6-foot-3, Guard – Freshman

Going from high school to college is a transition that all students have to make, whether they are an athlete or not. However, after getting the opportunity to join the team after initially being committed to Army West Point, Booker has the chance to continue having a great support system around him with his family just a train ride away.

“It feels great to stay home, knowing that my friends and family can come to the games. It is also important to me knowing that it gives inspiration to those younger than me in the DMV area,” Booker said.

Dom Campbell (Scarborough, Maine / Phillips Exeter Academy [N.H.]/Notre Dame) – 6-foot-9, Forward – Sophomore

In his second year playing college basketball after playing his freshman season at Notre Dame, Campbell is looking to be able to space the floor while also providing a presence at the rim this year for the team.

AJ Magbegor (Australia / Diamond Valley.) – 6-foot-7, Forward – Freshman

Due to Magbegor growing up in Australia, he didn’t have the notoriety on the high school basketball scene that he might have if he played in the United States. However, Magbegor’s sister Ezi Magbegor is a WNBA center for the Seattle Storm. Magbegor’s sister has shown him that a successful collegiate and professional career is attainable through hard work. Magbegor is now ready to succeed on a national stage, he said.

“I want to be able to perform at a high level in front of a big stage,” Magbegor said. “I feel that seeing her [his sister] do that herself gave me a lot of hope and courage. I’ve seen how hyped college basketball can be, and that’s just me watching through a screen, so I’m excited to face it in person.”

Dylan Metoyer (Chatsworth, Calif. / Sierra Canyon H.S.) 6-foot-1, Guard – Freshman

Sierra Canyon is known for producing high-level basketball talents, like Bronny James, Marvin Bagley or even Howard University’s own Shyheim Odom. Metoyer is the latest to get added to the list and will continue to mature in his basketball career on the other side of the country.

“Going from Sierra Canyon High School with a powerhouse sports program and lots of celebrities to the #1 HBCU to continue my academic and basketball career is amazing and a blessing. Even though it’s going to be a tough change, I’m ready to face adversity and overcome any challenge that comes my way. I can’t wait to see what this year has in store for me,” Metoyer said.

Seth Towns (Columbus, Ohio / Northland H.S. / Harvard / Ohio State)- 6-foot-9, Forward – Graduate Student

Towns is going into his eighth season of his college basketball career due to injuries playing a big part in extending his college tenure. After going through the highs and lows of college, Towns is ready to conclude his college career at Howard. His experiences on and off the court will certainly be an attribute to the team and the D.C. community.

Isiah Warfield (Monaca, Pa./ Central Valley H.S./Liberty University) – 6-foot-5, Guard – Graduate Student

Coming from Liberty University, Warfield also has lots of experience after playing there for three years and competing in over 80 games. Warfield also earned an NCAA tournament appearance recently in his time with Liberty.

Elijah Williams (Washington, D.C. / Sidwell Friends H.S. / Gettysburg College) – 6-foot-6, Forward – Graduate Transfer

As Howard men’s basketball player and All-MEAC selection, Williams looks to add some experience to the team, having played 75 games at Gettysburg College. He is the brother of Jelani Williams, a graduate student on Howard’s basketball team.

Seeing how these new additions to the team mesh on the court will surely be something to watch once the season starts. The Howard men’s basketball team is ready to make an impact on the court and everywhere else.

Copy edited by Diamond Hamm