With the departure of key players like Allen Mukeba, Jayson Woodrich, DQ Cole, and Malcolm Christie, a new chapter is beginning for the Oakland Golden Grizzlies men’s basketball team. 

The question on the minds of fans and analysts alike is: who will step up to fill the void and lead the Golden Grizzlies into the 2025-26 season? 

While the core of the team is familiar, the Golden Grizzlies have brought in a new group of talented newcomers who are ready to make a name for themselves. From dynamic playmakers to formidable bigs, these are some new additions that should be worth following closely as the season gets underway.

Brody Robinson, Point Guard (UT Arlington):

Brody Robinson is a significant and exciting addition to the Oakland backcourt. 

The senior transfer from UT Arlington is a developed, skilled, and poised ball handler with a solid bag of combo dribbles that makes him a true asset in transition. His twitchy, athletic nature allows him to play at a fast pace, which will be a great fit for the Golden Grizzlies’ style of play. 

One of his most promising attributes is his shooting prowess; Robinson possesses a smooth, consistent jumper and a pure stroke. His ability is backed by his efficient 40 percent accuracy from beyond the arc and a strong 80.5 percent from the free-throw line. This makes him a player defenses simply cannot leave open from deep. 

Robinson is also an efficient passer with solid court vision, highlighted by his impressive 2.0 assist-to-turnover ratio last season.

Ziare Wells, Wing (Lenoir-Rhyne)

Wells, a transfer out of NCAA Division II Lenoir-Rhyne, is an intriguing player to say the least, and his impact could be felt from the very start. 

As a wing standing at 6-foot-4, he brings an explosive offensive game to Oakland, one that made him a standout during his time at Lenoir-Rhyne. 

Last season, he led his team in scoring, averaging an impressive 16.6 points per game while shooting an efficient 53.2 percent from the field and a strong 39.1 percent from beyond the arc. 

He’s a proven bucket-getter who can create his own shot and score from all three levels, a skill set that will be invaluable for the Golden Grizzlies.

In addition to his skill set, Wells is a winner with a championship pedigree. He was named the South Atlantic Conference Tournament MVP and All-SAC First Team for a Lenoir-Rhyne squad that went 29-6 and advanced to the NCAA Elite Eight. 

He’s also a capable rebounder for his position, averaging 5.7 rebounds per game. 

His consistent production, experience in high-pressure games, and willingness to compete on both ends of the court make him the type of player who can immediately elevate the Golden Grizzlies’ performance and culture.

Michael Houge, Forward (Jacksonville State)

Michael Houge is an exciting new piece for the Golden Grizzlies’ frontcourt, bringing a combination of athleticism and experience that will immediately bolster the team’s defensive identity. 

Standing at a solid 6-foot-7, his athleticism, lateral quickness, and vertical leap make him an imposing presence on the defensive end. He possesses the physical tools to defend multiple positions, from agile forwards to powerful centers. 

His defensive impact is further evidenced by his ability to dominate the glass, averaging 7.4 rebounds per game in his last season. 

With a relentless motor and a knack for securing boards, Houge’s presence will be felt both in transition and in the halfcourt, making him a player fans should be very excited about.

Isaac Garrett, Forward (Snow College)

​Isaac Garrett is a promising big who will bring high-level production and efficiency to Oakland’s frontcourt. 

A 6-foot-8, 219-pound forward from Snow College, Garrett had an impressive sophomore season, showing he can be a dominant force inside. He was incredibly efficient, averaging 8.5 points and 5.7 rebounds per game while shooting an impressive 54 percent from the field. 

Garrett’s ability to finish consistently at the rim and on the offensive glass will provide a much-needed scoring boost in the paint. 

He has also demonstrated the capability to stretch the floor, offering a multifaceted offensive threat that will keep defenses on their toes.

Nate Deer, Forward (Texas State)

Nate Deer is a true wild card for the Golden Grizzlies and a player with a high ceiling. 

The 6-foot-9, 240-pound forward from Texas State brings significant size and a physical presence to the roster. 

Though his stats from last season (1.8 points and 1.6 rebounds per game) may not jump off the page, his potential is undeniable. Deer’s value lies in his raw physical tools, including his solid frame and interior defense. 

He is a high-motor player who can be a difference-maker on the glass and in the paint, providing the kind of toughness and size that will be crucial for battling in the Horizon League. 

Deer’s development under the Oakland coaching staff could lead him to emerge as a key contributor.

Khoi Thurmon, Guard (Panola College)

Khoi Thurmon is an exciting junior college transfer who could be a breakout star for the Golden Grizzlies this coming season.  

He brings a dynamic scoring and playmaking ability that should have Oakland fans on the edge of their seats. 

Last season, Thurmon averaged an impressive 14.8 points per game while also dishing out 6.5 assists per game, which was among the top marks in the NJCAA. 

He’s known for being a slippery, crafty guard who can get to his spots on the floor and is a proven scorer at the junior college level. 

His ability to facilitate the offense and create for others is a major reason why he’s considered such a high-impact newcomer, and his confident demeanor and talent give him the potential to make a huge splash in the Horizon League.

The new additions to the Oakland men’s basketball team represent a diverse profile of talent from various levels of college basketball. 

This incoming class is not a one-size-fits-all group, but rather a collection of players designed to address specific needs on the court. There’s the proven Division II scorer in Ziare Wells from Lenoir-Rhyne, the high-motor big man with positional size in Michael Houge from Jacksonville State, and the efficient, high-volume playmaker in Brody Robinson from UT Arlington. 

The blend of a high-scoring junior college guard in Khoi Thurmon and a raw but physically imposing forward in Nate Deer from Texas State shows the coaching staff’s approach: seeking a mix of immediate production, specific skill sets, and high-upside potential.  

The variety in this group of incoming talent suggests a strategic approach to rebuilding and retooling the roster.