WCC Basketball: Top 10 impact transfers for 2021-22 season
By Tuck Clarry
3. Te’Jon Lucas, G, BYU Cougars
14.9 points, 4.6 rebounds, 5.8 assists with Milwaukee
BYU lands their exact need in the transfer portal with the addition of the pure point guard Te’Jon Lucas, filling the role of Brandon Averette. The 6’2 redshirt senior is using the NCAA allowed an additional year to bolster an already established roster designed by head coach Mark Pope.
Lucas was a solid leader for the Panthers, averaging 1.63 assists for every turnover last season. His near 15 points per game served as the second-highest average on the team. He also is a solid rebounder for a smaller guard, adding a positive to a team that should rely heavily on their frontcourt.
Lucas may improve as a perimeter scorer, falling to 29% in his final season with Milwaukee, but will have some better looks playing off the ball in Pope’s system. He pairs extremely well with fellow senior Alex Barcello, who will continue to be a dangerous marksman outside–he shot 48.6% and 47.7% the last two seasons–as he takes advantage of his speed and driving abilities.
Lucas’ passing ability is a great addition for the Cougars, as he finished 21st in assist rate according to KenPom. His usage rate will no doubt go down playing alongside Barcello, which may also help his field goal percentage (39.2% in 2020-2021). Lucas will also help shore up some of the backcourt defense, as he led the Panthers in steals last season, averaging 1.1 for the year.
It’s likely that Lucas is going to play off-the-ball with Barcello to start the game and then become the de facto leader of the second team as the primary ball-handler. This will also be dependent on the progression of guard Hunter Erickson, who looks to be adept enough to play the point and shooting guard position.