MERCER Basketball Preview: Can Ryan Ridder's New Look Roster Defy Expectations?

The Mercer Bears are undergoing a massive roster overhaul in Year 2 under Coach Ryan Ridder ! We look at a team poised to defy expectations with new talent from the transfer portal . In This Episode: The Overhaul: Mercer replaces 72 PPG, losing 7 of 8 top scorers. We analyze why last year's fast tempo combined with poor defense made a brutal finish. X-Factors: Baraka Okojie (Memphis/George Mason transfer) is the high-potential guard who could be a major defensive disruptor and playmaker. New Foundation: Sophomore Captain Brady Shoulders provides the core, supported by transfers like 6'10" big man Armani Mighty (Size/Rim Protection) and veteran Zaire Williams . Prediction: We set the floor at 9th and the ceiling at 5th or 6th place in the Southern Conference , potentially making Mercer a major SoCon Tournament spoiler in Asheville! Can Ryan Ridder and the Bears defy expectations? Presented by Ingles Markets