Chris Beard and his staff have assembled a completely new team in preparation for the 23-24’ SEC basketball season. The team consists of only 5 returning players from the Kermit Davis era, and features a plethora of new names from programs all across the country. Of all of the new talent, there are three noteworthy transfers to watch out for in Chris Beard’s new system as the season begins.
Allen Flanigan
Allen Flanigan is a senior guard from Little Rock, Arkansas, and transfers in from Auburn. He was recently granted a waiver to play this upcoming season and will without a doubt be a player to watch.
As a frequent starter at Auburn, the oversized guard brings a wealth of scoring, rebounding, and experience to this Ole Miss roster. As the Tigers second leading rebounder last season, he will add more size to this Ole Miss backcourt. He and returning starter, Matthew Murrell, will be a terrific pairing as the 6’6” guard can score in bunches when the team needs him to.
During his sophomore year at Auburn, he was the most improved scorer in the SEC, so he has demonstrated that ability in the past. While playing for Bruce Pearl over the past few seasons, he has gained a ton of experience in big games and loud environments.
His leadership and experience will be crucial, as Ole Miss is looking to build a winning culture with a new look squad.
Jamarion Sharp
The second “biggest” name to watch out for this year is Jamarion Sharp. The transfer from Western Kentucky is currently the tallest player in collegiate basketball, with a height of 7’5”.
Known for his defensive prowess and ability to block shots, Sharp led the NCAA in blocks last season with 131, simultaneously beating Western Kentucky’s school record.
The dominating forward will bring much needed size to the Rebel’s defense, making opposing teams’ drive to the basket that much more difficult. As an NBA draft hopeful last season, he is looking to build upon his offensive ability as he averaged 7.4 PPG last season.
Moussa Cisse
Similar to Jamarion Sharpe, the Rebels’ third biggest impact transfer comes in the form of another very tall forward. Moussa Cisse is a transfer from Oklahoma State coming off two consecutive All-Big 12 defensive teams and a Big 12 Defensive Player of the Year Award in 2021-22.
He, much like Sharpe, is a defensive menace and shot blocking machine. He averaged 8 rebounds and roughly 2 blocks per game last season. Coupled with Sharpe’s 4.1 blocks per game, the Rebels’ frontcourt has the chance to be one of the best in not only the SEC, but in all of college basketball.
Not new to the area, Cisse, originally from Memphis, played for his hometown Tigers his freshman year, but ended up transferring to Oklahoma State.
The biggest question with Cisse is his eligibility. As a two time transfer, Cisse is still waiting for NCAA approval to play for Chris Beard this season. Allen Flanigan was granted his waiver a few weeks back, so it is now just a waiting game to get the big man from Memphis on the court this season.
Even if it is just for half the season, Moussa Cisse would be a massive addition to this Ole Miss team, IF he is approved by the NCAA.
Don’t miss out watching these three new transfers when Ole Miss takes on Alabama St. on November 6th.