Georgia Tech Men's Basketball: Building a Strong Foundation for the Future
Georgia Tech basketball is on a roll, and there's good reason to believe the program is ready to take a giant leap forward under the leadership of head coach Damon Stoudamire. Last season, the Yellow Jackets showed small progress with 17 wins, including 10 in ACC play. But this year's team feels different; it's deeper, more balanced, and oozing with confidence.
At the heart of this transformation is Baye Ndongo, a 6-foot-9 junior from Senegal. Ndongo was a third-team All-ACC performer and one of the league's best big men. In conference play, he averaged 13.4 points and 8.9 rebounds while shooting an impressive 53.6 percent. This kind of production is exactly what coaches dream of building their teams around.
But Ndongo won't be alone in his mission. Kowacie Reeves Jr., who missed most of last season due to a foot injury, is back and will provide a much-needed boost with his size and shooting ability. Jaeden Mustaf, a talented sophomore guard, brings energy and toughness to the backcourt, ensuring the team's defense remains strong.
Georgia Tech has also bolstered its ranks with key transfers. Chas Kelley, previously with Boston College, and Kam Craft, from Miami (Ohio), both bring valuable experience and scoring punch. Peyton Marshall, standing at 7 feet tall, could become a game-changer inside the paint.
The freshman class is no slouch either. Ranked among the top 25 nationally, this group shows how far Stoudamire has taken the program on the recruiting trail. Names like Akai Fleming, Mouhamed Sylla, and Brandon Stores Jr. represent real talent and potential, ensuring the future is bright for Georgia Tech basketball.
Three years into Stoudamire's tenure, his vision is becoming a reality. The Yellow Jackets boast a mix of experience and youth, size and speed, skill, and swagger. This team may not just compete; they might surprise people who rank them close to the bottom of the ACC preseason rankings. Despite the low rankings, Georgia Tech basketball is quietly building something special, and the future looks bright.
