9 T-Birds Sign to 4-year Schools

The 2023-24 NMJC men's basketball team had a prolific season on the court improving their win total by 11 games last season as they finished the year with a 23-9 (9-7) record and a Region V semifinal appearance. The Thunderbirds placed nine former student-athletes at four-year school following the end of the 2023-24 season. 

Bear Cherry - UNLV 

Antwaun Massey - Southern Illinois

Leo Torbor - Texas A&M-Corpus Christi 

Chaydon Stone - UMBC

Azavier Johnson - New Mexico State

Eli Bailey - Texas A&M-International (D2)

DJ Jamerson - Nebraska-Kearney (D2)

Trey Harris - Chadron State (D2)

Luca Barei - St. Edwards (D2)

Below is what Coach Mackay had to say about the outgoing NMJC Men's Basketball Class of 2024.

Bear Cherry: Having a courtside seat to Bear's development as a player, but most importantly as a young man, has been a pleasure. UNLV fans are going to love his combination of size, athletic ability and skill. The Runnin' Rebels have a force on and off the court!

Antwaun Massey: One of the toughest players I have ever been around, Twauny is the ultimate competitor and a high character young man. SIU will be better on the court, on campus, and in the community by adding Twauny to their roster. 

Leo Torbor: The Islanders have signed a dynamic guard that will give their fans plenty to cheer about. Along with being an explosive offensive player and a lockdown defender, Leo is a great person who will represent the program well at every opportunity. 

Chaydon Stone: Chaydon's growth from an unrecruited high school player to an NCAA D1 player, at such a quality program as UMBC, shows his commitment and work ethic. As a player, Chaydon will bring scoring and playmaking, and as a person, he will bring a fun approach to the game that will be infectious. 

Azavier Johnson: NMSU got the ultimate team player, who will do whatever it takes to impact winning. AZ is a powerful guard who can fill multiple roles on the court, and will help the Aggies win on and off the court. 

Elijah Bailey:  A true PG who makes everyone around him better, Eli will immediately help Texas A&M-International compete in the Lonestar. Dustdevil fans will enjoy watching his creativity and speed on the court. A great student of the game, and in the classroom, Eli was a huge key to NMJC winning 23 games. 

DJ Jamerson: An elite level athlete and student, DJ will quickly help the new staff at UNK establish a winning environment on and off the court. With his unique educational and basketball background, DJ will be an instant fan favorite around campus. 

Trey Harris: With his blend of size and high-level athletic ability in the back court, Trey will have Chadron State fans out of their seats all season. While only playing half the season last year, Trey still helped NMJC win 23 games, while also giving T-Birds fans their money's worth with his high flying ability. 

Luca Barei: A strong body sniper from 3, Luca embodies the Australian, team-first, mentality that will keep St. Edwards at the top of the Lonestar. As one of the most consistent workers on a 23 win NMJC team, Luca will take that work ethic, shooting and winning to the Hilltoppers and have a huge impact on the program.