Sangamon Sun

JACKSONVILLE, Ill. – Head Coach Steve Schweer and the Illinois College Men's Basketball team have introduced seven new players to the program.

Connor Brown, Henry Thomas, Andrew Thomas, Brady Clark, and DeShawn Nolan join as part of the class of 2028 at IC. The Blueboys also welcome two transfers: Javonte McKenzie and Jaylen Swinney.

Coach Schweer commented on the newcomers: "We are thrilled with our incoming class this fall. We lost some significant pieces after last season and knew that we had to add talent and depth to compete for some of those roles, and we were able to do that with this group. We were able to identify people who exemplify the characteristics that matter to us—toughness, selflessness, and an exceptional work ethic. Our incoming class is filled with dynamic players who can do a lot of different things well, and we are excited to see them challenge our returning group and help continue to elevate the level of our program. All the credit for putting this class together goes to our assistant coach Jay Rowell. He worked relentlessly to find the right people for us, and he deserves recognition for a job well done."

Connor Brown is a 6'4 guard from Springfield, IL (Calvary HS). His accolades include being a 2x 2nd Team IBCA All-State player, an IBCA All-Star Game participant, MSM Male Athlete of the Year, among others. Calvary Athletic Director Brittany Welk remarked on Connor: "Connor is an all-around great kid... We've been very fortunate to have Connor represent our school for the last four years and he will be sorely missed." Coach Schweer added: "We feel very fortunate to have Connor joining Illinois College... His basketball ability aside, Connor is a fantastic young man."

Henry Thomas is a 6'1 guard from Tolono Unity HS in Tolono, IL. He has participated in the IBCA All-Star Game and was named News Gazette All Area Boys Basketball Player of the Year. Henry's twin brother Andrew Thomas also joins IC as a versatile player who graduated as valedictorian with a perfect GPA. Their high school coach Franks said: "We could not be prouder of Henry and Andrew... Their passion and drive for the game of basketball makes them special." Coach Schweer noted their differing playing styles but emphasized their shared work ethic.

Brady Clark is a 6'3 wing from Kewanee HS in Kewanee, IL. His high school career includes numerous honors such as being named to various all-star games and earning multiple conference selections. High School Coach Dayton Ince praised Brady's leadership qualities: "Brady had an exceptional career at KHS... He will never shy away from a challenge." Coach Schweer lauded his toughness and competitiveness.

DeShawn Nolan is a 6'0 guard from Oak Forest HS in Oak Forest, IL. He was twice named an All South Suburban Conference performer while finishing top five in his class academically with a 6.0 GPA. Oak Forest HS Coach TJ Cobbs highlighted his character: "As good as he is as a basketball player, he is an even better person." Coach Schweer expressed excitement about DeShawn's unique abilities on the floor.

Javonte McKenzie joins from Moraine Valley Community College where he was an All Skyway Conference selection averaging solid stats across various categories. Moraine Valley CC Head Men's Basketball Coach Kyle Huppe described him as consistent with energy and effort: "He got better every single day." Coach Schweer emphasized Javonte's defensive capabilities.

Jaylen Swinney transfers from Fontbonne University where he contributed significantly during his freshman year on a team that reached the NCAA tournament. Coach Schweer mentioned Jaylen's versatility: "He brings good size and ability to stretch the floor which we are excited about."

Coach Schweer's final remarks encapsulated his enthusiasm for starting with these new additions.