Courtesy of Eurobasket LLC We bring you last week's top former Spartans players who are currently playing in pro basketball.
#1. Jamonda Bryant Jr., a 6'1'' guard who graduated from Norfolk St. in 2023 and received the prestigious All-MEAC Player of the Year award that same year, is currently showcasing his skills playing professionally in the Czech Republic. In a recent game, he led BK KVIS Pardubice to a significant victory against the closely-ranked Srsni Pisek with a score of 92-82 in the Czech Republic Maxa NBL. Bryant Jr. put up an impressive performance, contributing 16 points, 4 rebounds, and 2 assists in just 19 minutes of play. This game was a highly anticipated matchup between two top 4 ranked teams, with BK KVIS Pardubice maintaining their undefeated record and securing the top spot in the league standings. Despite the early stage of the season, Bryant Jr.'s consistent contributions have been essential in his team's success. His remarkable performance against Srsni Pisek not only showcased his skills on the court but also solidified his reputation as a champion. With an average of 12.5 points, 4.0 rebounds, 4.5 assists, and 3.0 steals per game this season, Bryant Jr. continues to excel in his role. His experience as a former participant in the Eurobasket Summer League, known as a top platform for players aiming to pursue basketball opportunities overseas, highlights his dedication to the sport and ambition to succeed at the highest levels.
#2. Kris Bankston, a 27-year-old center standing at 6'9" and an alumnus of Spartans from 2023, currently plays professionally in Turkey. Recently, he showcased his skills by aiding Turk Telekom Ankara in a thrilling victory against Pinar Karsiyaka in the Turkish ING Basketbol Super Ligi. Despite recording modest statistics of 3 points and 6 rebounds in 25 minutes of play, Bankston made a notable impact in his debut game for Turk Telekom Ankara this season. His contribution was vital as his team clinched a narrow 73-72 win over Pinar Karsiyaka, the league outsider. Bankston's performance was instrumental in securing the victory, as he not only scored 3 points and grabbed 6 rebounds but also provided 1 assist during the game. This outstanding display on the court played a key role in Turk Telekom Ankara emerging as the champion of the match, showcasing Bankston's value as a player. Currently, his team holds the eighth position in the league standings.
#3. Devon Ellis, a 6'7'' forward who graduated from Norfolk St. in 2026 and currently plays professionally in Hungary, made his debut for Phoenix-MT last Saturday. Despite his solid performance where he scored 11 points and grabbed 3 rebounds in 24 minutes of play, Phoenix-MT, with a record of 0-1, suffered a tough 94-75 loss on the road against the much higher-ranked Szombathely, who is currently ranked #6. Even though Ellis showcased his skills and determination on the court, his team was unable to secure the victory. This game marked Ellis' first appearance for Phoenix-MT this season, as he is in his first year with the team. Nevertheless, Ellis's performance highlighted his capabilities and why he is recognized as a champion player.
#4. Jaquel Morris, a 6'8'' forward and 22-year-old Spartans alumni from the class of 2026, currently playing professionally in Slovakia, was unable to lead Komarno to victory in their recent game last Wednesday. Although Morris displayed a commendable performance, contributing 10 points and securing 7 rebounds during his 28 minutes on the court, Komarno suffered a defeat at the hands of the higher-ranked Spisski Rytieri (#3) with a score of 87-75 in Nova Ves. Despite Morris' notable efforts against the formidable opponent, his team, Komarno, was unable to secure the win. Throughout the season, Morris has been maintaining an average of 8.0 points per game, along with 6.0 rebounds and 1.5 blocks per game, showcasing his valuable contributions to the team.
Other former Norfolk State University players, who play in pro basketball:
Tyrel Bladen (6'10''-F-2000, played in 2023-25) played for Jedinstvo in Montenegrin Erste Liga
Dana Tate Jr. (6'7''-F-1999, played in 2021-22) plays for Titanes in Dominican Rep. LNB
Jaylani Darden (6'5''-G-2002, played in 2023-25) played for Vellaznimi in Kosovan Superliga
Efstratios Kalogerias (6'10''-F/C-1997, played in 2019-21) plays for Faliro in Greek National League 1
Pendarvis Williams (6'6''-G-1991, played in 2010-14) played for Erdenet Miners in Mongolian MBL
Cahiem Brown (6'5''-F, played in 2021-23) plays for Queen City Vipers in the ECBL
Aleek Pauline (6'1''-PG-1987, played in 2008-12) played for Salesianos in Spanish 1Div.
Preston Bungei (6'6''-F-1995, played in 2015-16) plays for Casey Cavaliers Cranbourne in Australian NBL One
Notice: The list above includes only some of alumni playing currently in pro basketball. Check complete list of Norfolk State University basketball alumni.
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