Like with any collegiate basketball player, so much lies within opportunity. Now, it’s more challenging to find an opportunity than ever before. Between the additional years being granted and general freedom of transfer rules, many kids are staying in college as long as possible. The portal has over 2000 names and counting. That being said, someone like Shad Thomas has the tools to be an asset at various types of programs. The 6-foot-7 forward just entered the portal after a dominant Juco career at Catawba Valley and two seasons at Catawba. He received a medical redshirt for his most recent season and maintains one year (possibly two) of eligibility.
Thomas was an incredibly productive high school player before going the Juco route in college. There were high hopes for the athletic, switchable forward, yet he somehow managed to exceed any and all expectations. At Catawba Valley CC, Thomas averaged 15.5 PPG and 13.7 RPG as a freshman. The following year, his numbers increased to 16.4 PPG and 14.3 RPG (led country) with 19 double-doubles and 56/35/61 splits. He parlayed his multi-year dominance into a scholarship at Catawba.
In 12.7 MPG, Thomas found ways to be an impactful piece. He averaged 6.2 PPG, 3.1 RPG, 0.9 SPG while shooting an insanely high 66% from the floor. Thomas had obvious value within his limited role, offering energy, toughness, and efficiency as a finisher. His low-maintenance identity proved to fit alongside all types of teammates. However, his time at Catawba was cut short after playing only seven games this past season. Thomas received his medical redshirt and now has the chance to add a meaningful wrinkle to various scholarship-level programs. His blend of rebounding, finishing, and physical defense should make him an enticing asset for college coaches.