Southern Illinois University Edwardsville’s men’s basketball team has landed a significant recruit with the signing of Tyler King, a talented junior college transfer guard from St. Louis. King, currently playing at North Central Missouri College, will join the Cougars for the 2025-26 season.
King, a 6-foot-4, 185-pound guard, had an impressive stint with the Pirates in 2023-24, starting 34 games and averaging 21.6 points, 4.2 rebounds, and 1.7 assists per game. His performance helped the team advance to the National Junior College tournament quarterfinals.
“I’m excited to sign with SIUE and be a Cougar next year,” King said. “The campus felt like home, and the coaching staff and players were welcoming. Plus, it’s close to home, so my family and friends can watch us play.”
Head Coach Brian Barone praised King, saying, “Tyler is a hard-working winner from a great family. He had a very good season leading his team to the national tournament. Tyler can do everything and is a proven scorer, which we’re looking forward to adding next season.”
North Central Missouri Head Coach Jeremy Esry echoed Barone’s sentiments, stating, “Tyler made our program better on and off the court. SIUE is getting an outstanding individual who will bring success and leadership to the Cougars.”
The Cougars also signed incoming freshman Dehrio McCaskill, a 6-foot-3 combo guard from Vashon High School in St. Louis.
SIUE is currently 2-2 in the 2024-25 season and will face Western Michigan and Canisius in Kalamazoo, Michigan, this weekend.
Photo credit – NCMC Athletics / NCMCPirates.com / Trenton, MO
