Carmi-White County senior Bryce Conner has decided to change his path in terms of where he will take his talents to play collegiate basketball.
Back in March, Conner announced that he would play at Oakland City University for the next four years, but not everything goes as planned.
After some consideration, and long talks with friends and family, Conner has decided to suit up for the Falcons of Southeastern Illinois College.
Conner’s recruitment journey was very unusual and unlucky. A COVID-shortened sophomore season and an injury-ridden junior season didn’t allow Conner the chance to truly show college scouts his full potential, but a fully healthy senior season was all that SIC head coach Sam Swinford needed to see.
“At SIC, we emphasize recruiting local and giving the best players from within the school’s district the chance to come in and play. Having someone like Bryce right here in Carmi made him a huge priority for us to recruit,” said Swinford.
“Not only is he one of the best players in SIC’s district, but in southern Illinois.”
Swinford is confident that Conner will not only have the chance to play at SIC, but he feels that Conner has the chance to be a very good player in a very competitive league.
“Bryce‘s skillset will translate well to the college level immediately. He has a college ready body. He’s a tough matchup because he is taller than most guards and is so athletic and long with his jumping ability. He plays so hard and can get to the rim in transition, while also hitting the 3. He’s a perfect fit for how we like to play and he will be able to come in and contribute right away,” said Swinford.
Aside from basketball, academics is another driving factor for SIC’s interest in Conner, as he is near the top of the 2023 graduating class academically.
“Bryce is a great kid from a great family, he will be another guy like Devin Rankin was for us from Carmi who works hard on the court and in the classroom,” Swinford added.
Of course, with SIC’s campus being a short drive from Carmi, expect a lot of maroon & white in stands come next season.
“We are very excited he decided to stay close to home and play for us in front of his family and friends, and I can’t wait for all of his friends and family in southeastern Illinois to come out to Deaton Gym to support him this season,” said Swinford.
After 2 season with SIC, Conner will have the ability to play continue his career at a 4-year university, and playing for the Falcons will give him to opportunity to show scouts his true potential. Four members of the 2022-2023 SIC Men’s Basketball team will be continuing their careers at Division II or NAIA schools this fall.
Congratulations to Bryce Conner on his commitment to Southeastern Illinois College, and best of luck!
