Arkansas State Basketball Signs Dynamic Freshman Tim Matthews from Memphis

Hampton, Arkansas, United States - In the ever-evolving landscape of college basketball, the Arkansas State Red Wolves are making a strong push for the upcoming 2025-26 season. Head coach Ryan Pannone has officially signed freshman guard Tim Matthews from Memphis, TN, marking a significant addition to the roster. Matthews averaged 11.1 points, 4.9 rebounds, and 2.9 assists during his senior season at Cleveland High School. His impressive tally of over 1,000 points during his career at the school highlights his scoring ability and potential impact on the team.

Pannone described Matthews as a “6’4″ athletic guard” known for his high-energy play and knack for creating good scoring opportunities. Matthews previously showcased his talent at Hamilton High School, where he earned an all-region honorable mention and was named The Commercial Appeal Player of the Week. His contributions were pivotal in leading Hamilton to a second-place finish in their region and a commendable third-place finish in the state. The signing of Matthews is a key part of Pannone’s strategy in his first season with the Red Wolves.

Roster Overhaul and Strategic Additions

The addition of Matthews is part of a broader transformation of the Arkansas State men’s basketball team. Following the departure of Bryan Hodgson to South Florida, the Red Wolves have welcomed a slew of new talent to their ranks. In fact, Matthews is the 15th new face joining the squad this offseason, with several other notable signings aimed at revitalizing the team’s performance for the coming year.

Other new roster members include players like Jalen Hampton from Missouri State and Chandler Jackson from Florida State. Weston Honeycutt, who boasts 4A All-State accolades and a stellar performance of 48 points in a regional semifinal, promises to bring powerful scoring presence. Additionally, Fredy-Salam Sylla from Eastern Florida State brings his own impressive record, averaging 13 points and 7 rebounds, along with multiple double-doubles last season.

Changes and Departures

This season, the Red Wolves are not just about adding talent. They have seen several players depart through transfers. Notably, Derrian Ford and Izaiyah Nelson have both moved to South Florida, and several other contributors have sought new opportunities elsewhere. This churn is commonplace in collegiate athletics, especially with the rise of the transfer portal, adding to the dynamic atmosphere of roster building for the coaching staff.

Pannone is clearly building a team that combines experienced players with fresh talents, creating an intriguing and competitive environment. As the new season approaches, fans will be eager to see how these changes will translate on the court.

With such proactive measures and strategic additions, the Arkansas State men’s basketball team looks set for an exciting season ahead, with Tim Matthews as a central figure in this revitalization effort. Exciting times are surely ahead for the Red Wolves!