Fredericton-area Hoopsters Choose Varsity Reds

(FREDERICTON, NB) Versatile might be the best label to hang on the first group of recruits who’ve committed to joining the UNB Varsity Reds men’s basketball team.

That group includes two swingmen and a couple of Fredericton-area high school stars.

Varsity Reds head coach Brent Baker has received U SPORTS Letters of Intent from Fredericton High School Black Kats swingman Sterling Simpson, McAdam High School Warriors point guard Dawson Boon, and Nova Scotian swingman Joel Harris, of the Middleton Regional High School Monarchs.

“I’m excited that this trio will be joining the Varsity Reds,” said Coach Baker. “These individuals have the necessary work ethic to be very successful at the U SPORTS level. They’re not afraid of the weight room, and that stands them in good stead for the rigors of the AUS schedule.”

STERLING SIMPSON

Simpson, the younger brother of Grace Simpson, a current member of the Varsity Reds women’s basketball team, comes off a season where he was one of two Black Kats selected to the NBIAA’s Southwest All-Star team.

Standing 6’3”, he showed great improvement during his final high school season, and was a recruiting target for a number of AUS schools.

“There were a few other options, but UNB was the best fit,” said Simpson. “It’s a very skilled group of guys and there will be a chance to compete, but it’s also great academically, which was an important factor.”

His willingness to work hard and take instruction were key ingredients in why Baker feels he’ll be an asset for the program.

As for the inevitable comparison to his sister, Simpson said they’re different players.

“Even though we’ve played similar positions, we’ve always played different styles.”

With a laugh, the younger Simpson adds, “She always cheats when we play one on one, so it’s hard to tell.”

DAWSON BOON

Dawson Boon tore it up in Class A basketball at McAdam High School, averaging 37 points a game.

What he may lack in size, at 5’10”, he definitely makes up for with his ‘never say die’ attitude.

“Dawson has the skill set to play at the U SPORTS level and he’ll have the benefit of working with Assistant Coach Matt Daley, who can aid in his transition from high school to the university level,” said Baker.

JOEL HARRIS

Joel Harris went through the 2016-17 season without the benefit of high school basketball because Nova Scotia teachers were working to rule.

The 6’3” swingman did play with the Annapolis Valley club team Beast Coast.

“His commitment to improvement definitely sets him apart from other recruits,” said Coach Baker.

Simpson, Boon and Harris will join the Varsity Reds beginning in the 2017-18 season.