Concordia Stingers head coach Rastko Popovic is pleased to announce four new additions to his 2017 men’s basketball recruiting class.
Joining the team are guard Jonathan Koud, a transfer from Northwest Junior College; guard Oge Nwoko from St. Joseph’s Secondary School in Mississauga, Ont., and forwards Michel Hakizimana and Mattis Guerut, both out of the very successful Thetford Gold Prep program.
“Overall, our depth and skill set has improved with the addition of these players to our lineup,” said Popovic. “I’m definitely happy to add size with Michel and Matthis. Jonathan brings a lot of speed and athleticism, while Oge is a versatile player and an aggressive rebounder.”
Koud, a Montrealer who went straight from high school to junior college in Wyoming, has three years of eligibility left. The six-footer is quick and excels in the open court whether he’s looking to score or to set up his teammates. He averaged 11.4 points, 3.1 rebounds and 2.8 assists in his last season at Northwest.
Nwoko, a six-foot-three native of Mississauga, Ont., can play both guard and forward. He is an aggressive rebounder at both ends of the floor and he loves leading the break and making decisions in the open court.
From Gatineau, Que., Michel Hakizimana stands six feet, seven inches tall. He is a talented forward that will bring great energy to both ends of the floor. He is a very good defender and shot blocker and is a constant presence on the glass. Defensively, he can guard all five positions.
Guerut, who calls Vincennes, France home is a capable big man who can play inside and outside. He is a good passer, and his overall IQ for the game will be a great asset to the Stingers’ offence. He checks in at six feet, eight inches.
Basketball fans will have the chance to see the Stingers’ rookie class when Concordia hosts six NCAA teams in preseason action beginning Aug. 21. Popovic will announce his complete 2017-18 schedule next week.
