East Tennessee State Basketball: 2023-24 season preview for the Bucs
By Jay George
Key reserves for East Tennessee State Basketball
Although the starting guys feel locked in, this team can provide a bit of depth off the bench at first glance.
Key Guards – Allen Strothers and Quimari Peterson
Having a smaller, faster guard that has been in the program in Allen Strothers should be beneficial for the Bucs. Last season he was able to get a lot of playing time and although not the flashiest player stat wise, he can fit nicely in a point guard role as the guy to run the offense and take care of the ball especially if he takes a step forward in his ball control. He will likely play behind Tyler Rice as the other main point.
Peterson leans into a sort of combo guard role with the ability to be an efficient passer while still prioritizing scoring himself. In a lot of schools, he could be an everyday starter. In all reality, he could switch out at the one or three spot as a starter and very well may this season. He possesses that complete sound game to his play but can come off the bench as an important depth peace to keep the intensity on through the rotation.
Key Forwards – Braden Ilic and DJ Hughes
Braden Ilic will be a sophomore forward who did not see a lot of time last year but can bring some stability to the roster if he elects to stay at ETSU through his career. DJ Hughes comes in from Butler having held a bench role before. He could be an unseen talent that Savage has picked up and can use in a great role in Johnson City.
Key Freshman – David Meriwether, Gabe Sisk, Jaxson Jones, and Maki Johnson
The four freshman Savage has brought in all can step into roles quickly. Meriwether is the only true center on the squad who matches Jadyn Parker as the tallest on the team at 6’ 10”. ETSU will also be bringing in three freshman guards in Gabe Sisk, Jaxson Jones, and Maki Johnson all with size who can step into those 2 or three spots easily as they progress.