Florida State men’s basketball program continues to reshape its roster under new head coach Luke Loucks, securing a significant commitment on Saturday from rising talent Thomas Bassong. The 6-foot-8 forward, who hails from France, announced his decision to join the Seminoles, opting to spend his collegiate career in Tallahassee over several other high-major programs that had extended him scholarship offers.
Bassong made a name for himself last season competing in the Overtime Elite (OTE) basketball league, a growing platform that showcases some of the top young prospects in the world. During his time in the league, he delivered an impressive stat line, averaging 15.7 points and 7.7 rebounds per game. His combination of size, skill, and athleticism attracted the attention of several Power Five schools, with TCU, Kansas State, UCF, and Mississippi State all actively recruiting him before he chose Florida State.
What sets Bassong apart from many of his peers is his exceptional ability on the defensive end of the floor. Armed with a remarkable 7-foot-3 wingspan, he has earned a reputation as one of the elite defenders within Overtime Elite. His long reach, timing, and instincts have made him a disruptive force in the paint and on the perimeter, allowing him to guard multiple positions and alter or block shots with ease. Coaches and scouts alike have praised his defensive intensity and versatility, traits that should translate well to the college level and make an immediate impact at FSU.
This addition comes during a period of significant transition for Florida State, as the team undergoes a major roster overhaul following a challenging few seasons and the hiring of Coach Loucks. The Seminoles are entering a new era, and Bassong represents both a fresh start and a building block for the future of the program.
In addition to Bassong, Coach Loucks and his staff have been active in the transfer portal, working to retool the roster with experienced and dynamic players. So far, the Seminoles have added several key transfers: Robert McCray V from Jacksonville, Kobe Magee from Drexel, LaJae Jones from St. Bonaventure, and Chauncey Wiggins from Clemson. Each brings a unique skill set and college experience that will be valuable as the team develops under Loucks’ leadership.
Furthermore, Florida State will benefit from some roster continuity, as current player AJ Swinton is expected to return to Tallahassee for the upcoming season. His decision to stay adds stability and leadership to a team that will be blending new faces with returning talent.
With Thomas Bassong now officially on board, Florida State’s future looks increasingly promising. The combination of high-upside recruits and experienced transfers suggests that Coach Loucks is assembling a squad capable of competing in the highly competitive ACC, aiming to restore the program to national relevance in the years ahead.
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