After losing Head Coach Kim English to Providence at the conclusion of the 2022-23 season, former George Mason guard turned Maryland assistant Tony Skinn was hired by his alma mater.
In just his first offseason returning to the program, Skinn has massively restructured this George Mason roster following the mass exodus of talent with English’s departure.
It begins with guard Ronald Polite III opting to return to Fairfax for his senior season after initially entering the transfer portal in late March. Having averaged 11.5 PPG, 3.2 RPG, and 4 APG this past season, the All-Atlantic 10 Preseason Third Team selection will be tasked with running Skinn’s offense.
With Polite secured, Skinn was able to bring in a couple of power-6 transfers in Darius Maddox from Virginia Tech and Woody Newton of Oklahoma State who’ll both be expected to perform in the A10.
Around the mid-major ranks, Skinn was added some instrumental role players to help further flesh out his roster. Amari Kelly from UNCW, Jared Billups of Siena, Central Michigan transfer Nicolas Pavrette, UNLV wing Keyshawn Hall, and LIU guard Tre Wood will each likely see consistent playing time throughout the season.
However, the Patriots most important offseason transfer may be former Virginia Tech and East Tennessee State forward Jalen Haynes who Skinn was able to help return to the state of Virginia.
The 6-foot-8 All-SoCon Third Team selection averaged 14.6 PPG, 6.4 RPG, and 1.5 APG this past season, and is primed for a jump during his junior campaign at George Mason.
While the Patriots were picked just 10th in the A10’s preseason poll, look for Skinn and Co. to surprise in what should be a revamped conference for the 2023-24 season.
