Men's Basketball Announces Five Signees

Courtesy ASU Sports Information

Angelo State men's basketball head coach Fred Rike has announced the addition of five student athletes to fill the roster for the 2008-09 season.

"This is probably the strongest recruiting class that we have had since I have been here," Rike said. "These five players bring a lot to the team and are going to make an immediate impact."

Shavar Burch, a 6-6 forward from San Jacinto College, led the Ravens in rebounding his final season at SJC and averaged 11 points per game.

"Shavar can guard any position on the floor," Rike said. "He is a very good rebounder and can score in a variety of ways."

Johnny Barnes, a 6-6 forward from San Bernardino Valley College, finished third in the Foothill Conference in scoring last season averaging 18.8 points per contest.

"Johnny was an all-league player in both his seasons at SBVC," Rike said. "He is a true power forward that can also shoot."

Rike also brings in three Division I transfers that have postseason experience. Ryan Bennett, a 5-11 guard from Sam Houston, averaged 3.7 points and 3.2 assists in helping the Bearkats advance to the semifinals of the Southland Conference tournament in 2008. Malik Motnii, a 6-9 center from American University, averaged 4.3 points and 2.6 rebounds in helping the Eagles earn a birth in the NCAA Division I men's basketball tournament. Lionel Brown, who played for Rike at the University of North Texas, averaged 6.8 points and 2.4 assists in his final season for the Mean Green.

"Ryan can score from anywhere on the floor and is a good defender," Rike said. "Malik gives us a physical presence inside and is a good low post scorer. Lionel brings a lot of toughness, is a great competitor and can play either of the guard positions."

The Rams kick off the 2008-09 campaign in Stephenville on Nov. 21 against Texas A&M-International at the Tarleton State Classic. ASU's home opener is set for Saturday, Nov. 29, against Texas-Permian Basin.