Say Hi to the new kids on the block. Whether it’s a rookie season or graduating players leaving more opportunity, Canadians are staring to push themselves into the spotlight. Monday night provided four winning Canucks all-thriving on new opportunities.
Melvin Ejim (Toronto, On) – With one year left of college ball Melvin Ejim has been leaving it all out on the floor – Monday was no exception. Ejim has a double double of 14 pts (5-12 FG, 4-4FT) and 10 rebounds as the 17th ranked Iowa State Cyclones crushed Auburn 99-70. After only averaging 10.3 ppg through his first three seasons Ejim has nearly double his offensive out put as a senior. The 6’6” swingman is scoring 18 points on 50 percent from the field and 40 from three-point land.
Naz Long (Mississauga, On) – Long is having a very good season as the second year guard was able to score 11 points (4-9 FG, 3-7 3PT) on Monday night. Naz has made a big impact for the Clones scoring 11 points a game on 64 percent from the field, and a sizzling hot 60 percent from three. With Scott Machado graduating last year, Long has had the opportunity to step up for the clones and so far he’s delivering.
Kevin Thomas (Ajax, On) – With the American thanksgiving just in the rearview mirror, no one on the list has more to be thankful for than Kevin Thomas. Last year at about this time Thomas was in the NJCAA leading his Palm Beach Panthers to a 16th overall ranking. Although his Troy titans aren’t ranked, he is still enjoy a solid rookie campaign. The 6 foot 8 inch 205 pound versatile left scored 15 pts. (5-11 FG, 5-7 FT) grabbed 12 rebounds and added and assist, two blocks and a steal in a 73-70 double overtime win over Alcorn State. Thomas is now averaging 12 points, 7 rebounds and one assist in his first season at Troy.
Brandon Bos (Markham, On) – Brandon Bos scored 15 pts (4-9 FG, 1-2 3PT, 6-6 FT) for the third straight game leading his South Dakota Coyotes to a 71-67 win over Utah Valley. Ironically when Bos scored 15 points or more this season the Coyotes are a perfect 3-0.
