Transfer guard Derek St. Hilaire joins UNO Men’s Basketball

NEW ORLEANS – New Orleans head coach Mark Slessinger announced the addition of guard Derek St. Hilaire for the 2020-21 season. Hilaire joins fall signee D’Ante Bell in the 2020 Signing Class. St. Hilaire played two seasons at Jacksonville State and will be a senior upon his arrival to the Lakefront.

St. Hilaire appeared in all 32 games for the Gamecocks and made seven starts. The 5-11 guard averaged 6.8 points, 2.4 rebounds and 1.9 assists. He reached double figures seven times in 2019-20, including 22 points in a win over Chicago State and 18 off the bench versus Delaware State.

FROM COACH SLESSINGER
“We are very excited to add an experienced guard like Derek to our program. He has proven the ability to make big shots and defend at a high level. He was a part of successful programs at both Jacksonville State and Gordon State and that will be a huge addition to our current team.

ON RECRUITING ST. HILAIRE
“Derek’s character and toughness stood out in the recruiting process. He will also make an impact on our campus as a graduate student with a strong academic background.”

FROM DEREK ST. HILAIRE
“Coach Sless and Berg (Kris Arkenberg) welcomed me with open arms knowing I have one year of eligibility remaining. They showed me the opportunity that we as a team have to win the Southland Conference.”

ON A BIG PIECE OF WHY HE CHOSE NEW ORLEANS
“My relationship with Damion was a big reason why I chose New Orleans. He kept it real and told me how the coaches build relationships off the court and challenge us to get better on it. My plan is to come in and help UNO get back to the NCAA Tournament.”

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