The 2024-2025 college basketball season is around the corner and this offseason has been as active as any. More than 1,000 athletes entered the notorious transfer portal, with 77% of those guys landing a commitment. There have been coaching changes all across the country at all levels of college basketball, and there are incredible story lines from Division 1 to JUCO. This has the makings of yet another special season and we at Paid Dues will have our eye on a few guys in particular. Over the past few years, we have been fortunate enough to connect with guys who competed in the NCAA Tournament, guys who were named all conference, and guys who were recognized as All-Americans. Something about the upcoming season is different, as there is an anticipation that cannot be denied. There are three guys, with three unique stories who are ALL entering this season with something to prove. Nigel Martin, Kendall Bynum, and Christian More have major chips on their shoulders and are ready to put college basketball on notice.
Nigel Martin, 6 '5 wing from Cleveland, OH has endured one of the wildest rides of any current college basketball player, regardless of level. Going from playing the five at John Hay High School, to becoming a part of a dynamic wing tandem at Cleveland Heights, Nigel is no stranger to adversity or hard work. This is a guy who saw his points per game average go from 7 as a freshman to 21 as a senior. Beginning his collegiate journey at Shaw University, Nigel played his way into the starting lineup and eventually earned the CIAA Rookie of the Year, averaging 13.8 points and 6.2 boards in a very impressive freshman campaign. He then transferred to JUCO powerhouse Vincennes University where he saw limited action, during the hectic “covid season”. After dealing with a season of uncertainty, playing out position, and not meeting his own expectations, Nigel took the following season off to focus on his own development. The guy who was only one year removed from being praised as one of the best freshmen in division 2, was now at home, waiting for another opportunity. The opportunity came and it was an unlikely destination. Roughly, 960 miles from Cleveland, Santa Fe College in Gainesville, FL. Nigel was sharper mentally, stronger physically, and had a more intense appreciation for the game. He played well on a talented JUCO team, in one of the toughest regions in the country, averaging 8 & 5 and earning himself a scholarship to NAIA power Indiana Tech University. On October 27, 2023 the Warriors opened their season against the Indiana Wesleyan Wildcats who were ranked in the top 10 at the time. Nigel went 11-16 from the field on his way to a 30 point performance and an 85-83 win that shocked many but just reminded others. Through ten games, Nigel was just starting to find his rhythm averaging 17.3ppg and 5.1 rpg while shooting 50% from the field and 32% from 3. Then on December 5, 2023, he ruptured his achilles in the second half against Cumberland University. Now facing yet another setback, Nigel is ready to show that he can not only return from the daunting achilles injury, but return BETTER. This season begins on October 31, against, yep you guessed it, Indiana Wesleyan again and Nigel is expected to be available.
Kendall Bynum is one of the smoothest, most pure PGs I have seen in a while. His ability to see the game, make reads before they happen and pass people open is a gift that he’s had since his days at Western Branch High School in Chesapeake, VA. The Virginia native graduated in 2019 before attending the prominent Mt. Zion Prep Academy in Maryland where he averaged 12 & 5 playing very well on a national stage. He then earned a scholarship to the University of Western Florida, in Pensacola, FL where his minutes fluctuated over the course of two seasons and he found himself looking for a larger role. Deciding to go the JUCO route, Kendall returned home and enrolled at Bryant & Stratton College where he regained his mojo and showed exactly why teams are more efficient when the ball is in his hands. His decision making in the ball screen, his jump shot consistency, and ability to lead a team took a major leap and his confidence resembled that of young KB. Kendall averaged 12 & 6 and led the Bobcats to 23 wins, rewarding him a spot on division 2 Virginia State University’s roster. As the starting point guard for VSU last season, Kendall led the Trojans in both points and assists and made a strong case for an all conference selection. As his senior season approaches, Kendall will have to prove once again that he is indeed one of the best in the league. With incoming transfer, and fellow Hampton Roads native, Jacob Cooper now in Petersburg, these two could emerge as not only one of the best backcourts in the CIAA but in all of NCAA Division 2.
Christian Moore is what I like to call a silent killer, he’s one of those guys who’s expression rarely changes and without even realizing it he’ll give you 25. The guy is poised beyond his years and has a competitive edge that coaches love. His demeanor, basketball IQ, and ability to shoot from anywhere on the floor are all impressive but his best attribute is the fact that the dude is a flat out winner. He knows how to win and is committed to doing whatever it takes to ensure that it happens. This was never more evident than watching his senior year at Cape Henry Collegiate, where he led his squad to an undefeated record and the VISAA D1 State Championship. After Cape Henry, Christian decided to take his talent to Hargrave Military Academy, which has a rich alumni list, filled with other Virginia greats, such as Vernon Macklin, Mike Scott, and most recently, the late A.J James. While competing against some of the best guards in the country, Christian played well and displayed his ability to not only score but also lead. His play ultimately led him to the University of New Hampshire, where he’s played the past two seasons. Christian appeared in only 14 games as a freshman due to injuries but showed flashes of potential in limited action. In two seasons, Christian has played for two coaches, has learned two systems, and has yet to find a rhythm within his role at UNH. In about 13 minutes of play, Christian has averaged 5.5 per game. This summer Christian decided to bet on himself and enter the transfer portal, where he drew interest from schools of all levels. After a few weeks of reflecting, he decided to commit to Indiana University of Pennsylvania, one of the most competitive programs in all of NCAA Division 2. IUP is coming off a 17-13 season, losing in the PSAC quarterfinals to Gannon University, who made it to the Elite Eight. IUP will be losing two all conference performers, who were responsible for a combined 1108 points, 468 rebounds, and 236 assists. Needless to say Christian is entering a situation where high level production will be needed. He will have a backcourt mate in Dallis Dillard, who is returning from a season ending injury. Prior to the injury he was averaging 15.8 points and 6.3 rebounds per game. With much to prove, Christian should be in prime position to arise as one of the best guards in all of division 2.
Here are three hoopers with three stories, and three different paths, but share similar fuel, similar passions, and the SAME KILLER INSTINCT. This season will be a memorable one as the culmination of injuries, transfers, and doubts combine to create a perfect storm. A storm that is ready to erupt in Fort Wayne, Indiana, Petersburg, Virginia, and in Indiana, Pennsylvania respectively. Nigel, Kendall, and Christian are prime examples of perseverance. They keep their heads down and run their race, and they represent EXACTLY what Paid Dues Basketball stands for. If you’re a casual basketball fan looking for a player to root for or a story to follow this season, look no further than these three guys, they will not disappoint. I’d say they have a chip on their shoulder but that wouldn’t be saying enough.
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