Georgia Tech Men’s Basketball is on the brink of something extraordinary, and it’s time to take notice. Boldly defying preseason predictions, the Yellow Jackets are quietly crafting a future that could shake up the ACC. But here’s where it gets intriguing: while most analysts have them ranked near the bottom, this team feels different—deeper, more balanced, and brimming with untapped potential. Could they be the dark horse of the season? Let’s dive in.
Under the leadership of Coach Damon Stoudamire, Georgia Tech is no longer just a program in progress; it’s a program with a purpose. Last season’s 17 wins, including 10 in ACC play, were a step in the right direction, but this year’s roster suggests a leap. And this is the part most people miss: the blend of returning talent, strategic transfers, and a highly touted freshman class has created a foundation that’s both solid and dynamic.
At the heart of this transformation is Baye Ndongo, the 6-foot-9 junior from Senegal who’s already a proven force. A third-team All-ACC selection, Ndongo averaged 13.4 points and 8.9 rebounds in conference play while shooting an impressive 53.6 percent from the field. His presence alone is a game-changer, but he’s far from alone. Here’s the controversial take: with Ndongo anchoring the paint, Georgia Tech might just have the most underrated frontcourt in the ACC. What do you think—is he the key to their success, or is there more to the story?
Returning from injury, Kowacie Reeves Jr. adds a much-needed dimension on the wing with his size and sharpshooting ability. Meanwhile, Jaeden Mustaf, a sophomore guard, brings relentless energy and toughness to the backcourt. But here’s where it gets controversial: Mustaf’s development could be the X-factor that pushes this team from competitive to contender. Is he ready for that role?
The transfer portal has also been kind to the Yellow Jackets. Chas Kelley from Boston College and Kam Craft from Miami (Ohio) bring veteran scoring and leadership, while Peyton Marshall, a 7-footer, could be the rim protector they’ve been missing. And this is the part most people miss: Marshall’s impact might not show up in the stat sheet, but his presence could elevate the entire defense.
Then there’s the freshman class, ranked among the top 25 nationally. Names like Akai Fleming, Mouhamed Sylla, and Brandon Stores Jr. aren’t just recruits—they’re the future. Their talent and potential are a testament to Stoudamire’s recruiting prowess. Boldly put: this class could be the catalyst that propels Georgia Tech into a new era of success.
Three years into Stoudamire’s tenure, his vision is crystalizing. The Yellow Jackets now boast a roster with the perfect mix of experience and youth, size and speed, skill and swagger. But here’s the question: Can they defy the odds and climb the ACC rankings? Preseason polls have them near the bottom, but this team has all the ingredients to surprise—and maybe even shock—the conference.
Georgia Tech basketball isn’t just building a team; they’re building a legacy. The question is, are you ready to watch it unfold? Let us know in the comments—do you think the Yellow Jackets are being underestimated, or is their low ranking justified?
