(FREDERICTON, NB) The UNB REDS men’s basketball team is adding 6’3” shooting guard Gayo Isaya in a transfer from the St. Thomas University Tommies, of the Atlantic Collegiate Athletic Association.
The former Fredericton High School Black Kat will join the REDS ahead of the 2023-2024 Atlantic University Sport season.
“Gayo brings a level of toughness and leadership we’ve been looking to add to our roster,” said REDS’ head coach Joe Salerno. “He has had a couple of great seasons with St. Thomas, and I believe he’s ready to make the jump back to U SPORTS basketball."
In two seasons with the Tommies, Isaya averaged 14.5 points and more than six rebounds per game.
He was named ACAA Defensive Player of the Year in 2022 and 2023, earning 1st team conference all-star status in 2021-22 and 2nd team all-star status in 2022-23.
Before joining the Tommies, Isaya played a single season at STFX, where he appeared in seven games.
“Growing up in Fredericton, I went to every UNB basketball game I could,” said Isaya. “I looked up to guys like Javon Masters, Dylan Baker and Kaleefah Henry, so to be a part of the program, putting on this jersey and playing in the Currie Center, is going to feel surreal.”
"He plays an aggressive style of game and is a true competitor,” said Coach Salerno. “I believe his passion for UNB Basketball and this community is going to go a long way in the locker room, and will translate to more success on the court for our program.”
“I’ll bring elite defence and athleticism,” said Isaya. “I can run in transition, bring more size at the guard spot, attack the rim, and I can knock down the open shot in the half-court. As a teammate, I have experience and leadership qualities. I’ll keep guys accountable on and off the floor. I’ll lead by example with my work ethic.”
Isaya lists winning an AUS championship as a short-term goal. Longer-term, he wants to bring a national championship to UNB and become an active part of the program’s elite alumni group.
“I’m excited for this amazing opportunity,” he said. “To be able to play in my hometown, in front of my family and closest friends, is a huge blessing, on top of furthering my education. I always wanted to put on a REDS jersey.”
Isaya will study Business while attending UNB.
STORY AND PHOTOS: Andy Campbell/UNB Athletics