Undoubtedly, the Atlantic 10 has become one of the nation’s most intriguing college basketball conferences for transfers over the past few seasons. Often considered a top-tier mid-major, that label has made it one of the ideal destinations for low-major prospects talented enough to transfer up a level. Additionally, its become a consistent landing spot for former top-100 prospects or high-major recruits transferring down to search for minutes.
As one of the conference’s I cover very closely, I’ve had the opportunity to watch all 15 programs from the Atlantic 10 a little over a month into the season. Once again, the conference is littered with transfer portal talent playing pivotal roles in high-major upsets, lifting Rhode Island to a 9-1 record, and helping programs to surpass early expectations.Â
Here are my rankings on the top-10 transfer portal additions in the Atlantic 10 so far this season.
10.) Dasonte Bowen – St. Bonaventure
Having made 51 career appearances over two season’s at Iowa, Bowen transferred to St. Bonaventure this offseason and has instantly become a consistent starter for head coach Mark Schmidt. Averaging career-highs across the board with 11.1 PPG, 3.8 RPG, 4.2 APG and 2.0 STLPG, the Boston, MA native is top-150 in steal percentage on KenPom all while shooting 43% from the field. After four straight double-digit scoring games to open the season 4-0, Bowen’s best performances have come more recently with 17 points and three assists versus Northern Iowa.
9.) Melvin Council Jr. – St. Bonaventure
The former Wagner guard has had no problems with a transition to the Atlantic 10, leading this rebuilt Bonnies roster though the backcourt with 12.0 PPG, 5.3 RPG and 3.2 APG across 10 appearances. A 2023-24 All-NEC honoree with NCAA Tournament experience, it should be no surprise but with St. Bonaventure selected 10th in the Atlantic 10’s Preseason Poll, Council was doubted. As the Bonnies now sit 9-1, its been Council leading the way with 18 points to defeat Bryant, 17 points to win at Canisius and even adding a double-double in the only loss of the campaign so far.
