WINTER HAVEN – Big man
Fray Nguimbi is expected to be a major contributor for Polk State Basketball during the 2024-25 season, but before he arrives for the Fall 2024 Semester, he'll have the chance to showcase his skills at one of the biggest preseason junior college events in the nation.
Nguimbi, a redshirt sophomore forward, has been invited to the All-American JUCO Showcase Invitational in Atlanta from July 12 through 14. Founded in 2010, the multi-day event annually invites the top 160 junior college prospects in the nation to show off their basketball skills in front of more than 300 four-year coaches and professional scouts.
"It means a lot to be selected," Nguimbi said. "It's a great opportunity to work against the best junior college players."
A 6-foot-8 native of the Republic of Congo, Nguimbi began his collegiate career at Pennsylvania Western University, Clarion, an NCAA Division II program. As a freshman during the 2022-23 season, Nguimbi averaged 5.6 points and 5.8 rebounds per game for the Golden Eagles. He was redshirted last season at Polk State.
"A lot of people haven't had the chance to see me play," Nguimbi added. "I want to put my name out there and represent Polk State."
An athletic 185 pounds, Nguimbi is expected to be an interior scoring threat, a force on the glass, and provide a shot-blocking presence at the rim for the Eagles this coming season. Nguimbi is one of six returning players for Polk State. That's the highest number of returners for the Eagles in five years as they enter their eighth season under Head Coach Brandon Giles.
"I'm very versatile on defense," Nguimbi explained. "I feel like I can guard one through five. I can protect the rim as well."
One of the top preseason events in the country, the All-American JUCO Showcase Invitational has had several participants who have gone on to play in the NBA over the years. That includes current Golden State Warriors guard Gary Payton II, Sacramento Kings wings Chris Duarte, and Alize Johnson.
"I'm really excited for this season at Polk State," Nguimbi expressed. "I love the coaching staff and I know we can do great things."
