Long Beach State Men's Basketball program signs three recruits

November 14, 2013

Long Beach State coach Dan Monson announced the signings of recruits Justin Bibbins, Jack Williams, and Temidayo Yussuf today.  The trio will compete during the 2014-15 season.

After enduring a tumultuous season last year with a transfer-laden roster, the 49ers' addition of the three freshmen constitutes a new approach of looking to the prep ranks as a way to grow the program.

“I am excited to build again around quality freshman who will impact the program and put their own mark on it the next four years,” said Monson. “All three came from private high schools in California that have a track record of producing winners on and off the court. They are all high character, motivated students that are coupled with being very good basketball players – a coach’s dream. We look forward to all three creating their own legacy at The Beach.”

Justin Bibbins, a 5-8 point guard, averaged 22.3 points per game and 5.4 assists in the regional playoffs last season, and was a CalHiSports second-team All-State selection.

“Justin gives us a young point guard for the future as well as a great compliment for Mike Caffey next year,” said Monson. “Defensively, he is a very good on ball defender. Offensively, he knows how to run his team, make open shots, penetrate, set up teammates, and most importantly win – A pretty good combination.”

The 49ers also added a pair of forwards in the class. Jack Williams, 6-8, averaged a double-double last season and is considered a face-up 4.  He was the 7th best rebounder in California and earned first-team All-CIF honors.

“I just love Jack’s motor,” noted Monson. “He plays hard every play and goes after every rebound. He is a four man who can stretch the defense with his outside jump shot and his versatility will be invaluable.”

Yussuf, another 6-8 forward, is a back-to-the-basket scorer and earned a MaxPreps Division 5 first-team selection.

“Temidayo is a versatile big man who can play on the low block or face up and hit a 15-footer,” commented Monson. “He has a good feel for the game for a big man, and helps his team win in a variety of ways. His best basketball is ahead of him.”

The trio will join a 49er squad that will be anchored by a strong senior class led by guard Mike Caffey for the 2014-15 season.

As for this year's squad, the 49ers (1-1) will face Loyola Marymount tonight in a home game at The Pyramid following their 91-57 blowout road defeat to Arizona.  Tipoff is at 7:00 p.m. PT.

By Staff of The Daily Sports Herald and news services

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