What is Longwood getting in BK Ashe?
1,006
That’s how many points BK Ashe has posted in his collegiate career. As a Longwood Lancer though, the number is zero.
“He wants to play at the highest level”
That’s what Mount St. Mary’s head coach Jamion Christian said when Ashe decided to transfer after the 2015–16 season. After making the NCAA his freshman year, Ashe saw The Mount go 14–19 his final season after averaging 13.8 points, 4.5 rebounds, 1.7 assists, and 1.3 steals per game. Clearly his expectations were to latch onto a Power 5 or high level mid-major program for his final year of basketball.
Somehow that opportunity never came for the 6'1 Washington, DC native and instead he found a home at Longwood.
When players come in via a Division I transfer fans find themselves scouring the internet for details on the player. It’s clear that Ashe is a volume shooter, averaging over 12 shots per game his junior season, and a high usage player. Mount St. Mary’s is known for their defense and Ashe’s 42 steals, 149 rebounds, and 16 blocks are certainly impressive given his size. But how will his past playing history fit in with Longwood and how has he developed while sitting a year out.
Ashe hasn’t played a game yet, but he’s already a fan favorite. In many ways his outgoing personality has already positioned him as the face of the team for the 2017–18 season. It’s a great balance between his high energy personality and the quiet confidence and leadership of Isaiah Walton and Damarion Geter.
When Longwood lines up for the first time, you’ll see him on the wing as a two guard next to Juan Munoz. Despite his size, he won’t be Longwood’s primary ball-handler and it’s up to Munoz and Ashe’s former teammate Charles Glover to orchestrate the offense and make sure everyone is getting touches.
When asked what to expect from Ashe this season, NEC expert and Blue Ribbon Yearbook writer Ryan Peters said:
The all-conference talent comment should get every Lancer fan excited, but should we worry about offensive balance given the shot selection piece (a nod to the volume scorer)?
Longwood would tell you, NO. Ashe has developed over the summer, and the year off, as a vocal leader of the team and a more unselfish, selective offensive player. Of course, that’s great to hear from practice but the proof will be in the pudding when he steps onto the court for a real game.
Lancer fans should be excited about BK Ashe. He’s an offensive talent Longwood hasn’t had since TT Carey. He can spread the court with his ability to knock down the three and is also a threat to slash to the basket at any time. Need proof? Here you go…
A chip should be on everyone’s shoulder going to this season, but that chip should be even bigger for BK Ashe. He has a chance to have a memorable season and leave a legacy at Longwood. It had to be tough seeing his former teammates make the NCAA Tournament yet again last season.
