The Waynesburg men’s basketball team has high hopes this upcoming season. After finishing fourth in the Presidents’ Athletic Conference with a record of 14-12 and losing in the first round of the PAC playoffs, standout forward Antone Baker is returning for a fifth season.
Baker was named the PAC’s defensive player of the year last season, while averaging two blocks and a steal a game. Baker was cut just short of the MVP awards last season as he averaged 17 points and was able to bring in eight rebounds a game. These accolades did earn Baker all PAC first team.
“Honestly, it would be nice to get the DPOY Award again,” Baker said. “But I’m looking to win not worried about individual awards but if that’s comes with winning yes I would love to get the award again”
“I understand I was cut short last season but as of right now I’m just worried about winning and being the last team standing,” Baker added.
As for the goals this season, Baker had this to say.
“The main goal this season is to win games and be 1st in the conference,with the team getting a ring at the end of the playoffs,” Baker said. “I came back because we had unfinished business in the PAC.”
Baker added “I see this team going all the way. We got so many pieces on this team it’s going to be hard to stop us this year.”
Baker isn’t alone as 6’7” center Jaylen Davis will also be returning for the Yellow Jackets. Davis nearly averaged 10 points and eight rebounds a game.
“I definitely want to get my 1,000 points this season. I’m 211 off,” Davis said. “I also want to make sure I keep the morale of the team up so we aren’t to get down after a tough game”
“Without a doubt number 1, with tones available to slash and finish at the rim partnered with my post skills, there’s not a duo in the pac that will be able to stop us,” Davis said when asked about where he ranks the front court of him and Baker in the PAC.
For the season, Davis said this “I see us in the top of the PAC and if not that, top three, we will definitely be a powerhouse team and that’ll show in February.”
Davis transferred in from Terra State Community College, in Fremont, Ohio.
“It definitely feels like I’ve been here a lifetime, being able to help the newer guys with anything is a rewarding feeling,” Davis said. “Being a newcomer to a new school I know how hard it can be to get adjusted so I want to help the transition feel as smooth as possible.”
Davis did not come alone as guard PJ Suggs also transferred in from Terra State. Suggs is also returning to the yellow jackets and can have a big role in the upcoming season.
Suggs avered five points last season but missed some time due to injury. Sugggs career high took place vs Bethany scoring 16 points shooting 7-11 from the field.
Senior guard, Korey Mitchum will also be returning to the Jackets. Mitchum averaged five points, scoring a career high of 19 at Fransiscan.
With the experience of the core four and addition seven transfers the Jackets look to make the playoffs for a second consecutive season.