Young Talent, Seasoned Leaders Lead Men’s Basketball into 2024-25 Season

The men's basketball team is poised for a successful 2024-25 season with a talented roster featuring a mix of experienced players and promising newcomers.

Head coach Mark Schmidt is entering his 15th season at the helm of the program and has guided the team to 10 NCAA Tournament appearances, including four Sweet 16 berths. He will be assisted by a veteran coaching staff that includes associate head coach Kevin Sutton and assistant coaches Dwayne Killings and Matt Brady.

The roster is led by a trio of senior captains: guard Jalen Pickett, forward Seth Lundy, and center John Harrar.

Pickett, a two-time All-ACC selection, is the team's leading scorer and assist man. Lundy, a versatile forward, is a dangerous scorer from both inside and outside the paint. Harrar, a 6-foot-9 center, is a force on the boards and a rim protector.

In addition to the senior leaders, the team also boasts a talented group of underclassmen, including sophomores Cam Wynter and Jameel Brown Jr. and freshman Bryce Hopkins.

Wynter, a speedy point guard, is a gifted passer and scorer. Brown, a 6-foot-7 forward, is a skilled scorer and rebounder. Hopkins, a 6-foot-6 forward, is a highly touted recruit who is expected to make an immediate impact.

The team's schedule is challenging, featuring games against several ranked opponents, including non-conference matchups against Duke, Kansas, and Villanova. The ACC schedule is also loaded with tough games, including road contests at North Carolina, Virginia, and Louisville.

Despite the challenging schedule, the team is confident in its ability to compete for an ACC Championship and make a deep run in the NCAA Tournament.

"We have a good mix of experience and youth on this team," Schmidt said. "Our seniors are great leaders and our young guys are very talented. I'm excited to see what this team can accomplish."