The SIUE men’s basketball team has recently announced the acquisition of a new player for the 2024-25 season. Darrion Baker, originally from Chicago, has transferred to Edwardsville from Akron, where he spent his redshirted freshman season. With four years of eligibility remaining, Baker is eager to make a strong impression at SIUE.
As a standout player at Hillcrest High School, Baker boasts impressive statistics, averaging 14 points, seven rebounds, and two blocks per game. He was recognized as a First Team All-State performer and Defensive Player of the Year during his senior year, and also received the title of First Team All-South Suburban pick in his junior year.
According to SIUE men’s basketball Head Coach Brian Barone, Baker’s addition to the team brings a valuable combination of size and versatility. Barone noted Baker’s ability to excel in rebounding and embrace contact, as well as his skills in navigating the perimeter, making him a well-rounded asset to the team. The coach expressed his excitement at the prospect of Baker elevating the team’s performance on both ends of the court.
Baker himself is enthusiastic about starting fresh and joining a group of teammates who share his ambition to succeed. His determination to work hard and achieve victory bodes well for the SIUE men’s basketball team. In discussing his next chapter with SIUE, Baker exudes positivity and readiness to contribute to the team’s success.
By joining SIUE, Baker becomes the seventh member of Barone’s 2024 recruiting class, joining other promising recruits such as Cham Okey, JaMir Price, Ring Malith, Myles Thompson, Kyle Thomas, and Jordan Hamilton. With this talented new lineup, the team is poised to make waves in the upcoming season.
Reflecting on the 2023-24 season, SIUE finished with an overall record of 17-16, marking the first instance of consecutive winning seasons since the transition to Division I. With the addition of Baker and the rest of the new recruits, the future looks bright for the SIUE men’s basketball team.
As the team prepares for the upcoming season, the arrival of Darrion Baker brings a renewed sense of anticipation and excitement. With his skills and determination, Baker is poised to make a significant impact on the team’s performance and contribute to their continued success.