San Diego State Basketball: 2023-24 season preview for the Aztecs

Projected Starters

Guard – Darrion Trammell (Senior)

Perhaps the Aztecs’ most critical addition in the offseason last year, Trammell became a machine in two years at Seattle before landing at San Diego State. He averaged 9.8 points and 2.9 assists per game in his first season as an Aztec, significantly less of a scoring presence than his time with the Pioneers. Expect him to be a more involved scorer this season, especially if his 3-point shot gets back on track and can replicate the success of last year’s 21-point performance against Alabama.

Guard – Lamont Butler (Senior)

Before the postseason, Butler was named Third Team All-MWC and earned a second straight spot on the All-Defense squad. He averaged 8.8 points, 3.2 assists, and 2.7 rebounds per game and has been a big part of the game plan on both sides of the ball. Any contribution was certainly overshadowed when he made that buzzer beating shot against Florida Atlantic in the Final Four; one of the most dramatic shots in the sport’s history. Expect even more in year four, especially with the changes in the lineup.

Guard – Reese Waters (Junior)

Perhaps this year’s key offseason addition, Waters comes to town by way of USC where he spent his last three seasons. He was mostly a bench piece for the Trojans but really started to get some run as a junior last year. Not only did he average 9.8 points per game, but he was named Pac-12 Sixth Man of the Year. He brings potential in the offense to an Aztecs team that sometimes lacked explosiveness on that end last season.

Forward – Jay Pal (Senior)

Another addition from this past offseason, Pal is hoping to become a key cog in the Aztec’s frontcourt on both sides of the ball. He’s already spent time at three colleges, including a very decent senior year at Campbell last season, averaging 12.3 points and 6.9 rebounds for the Camels. After a year as one of the Big South’s best rebounders and shot blockers, Pal looks to have a similar impact in his final collegiate season with the Aztecs.

Forward – Jaedon LeDee (Senior)

LeDee is a former Top 100 recruit who spent time at Ohio State and TCU before landing at San Diego State, playing for the Aztecs last year. He was a reserve in the frontcourt last year, averaging 7.9 points and 5.3 rebounds per game, but will certainly have a major role in Dutcher’s system this season. He has potential on both ends, with the Aztecs really excited about his defensive versatility.