MOSCOW, Idaho – The Idaho men's basketball program officially signed junior guard EJ Neal on Monday. Neal, a transfer from City College of San Francisco, will join the Vandals for the 2023-24 season and sign as the first official recruit under new head coach Alex Pribble.
A native of San Francisco, Neal stacked up postseason accolades at the junior college level as he was a two-time First Team All-Defensive player and two-time First Team Coast Conference representative at San Francisco City. He was also named Defensive Player of the Year in 2023, achieved All-Freshman honors and drew over 100 charges during his time.
"EJ is a winner," said Pribble. "He competes at an extremely high level every time he steps on the court. As we continue to build this program, we need guys like EJ who are talented, team-first, and willing to go the extra mile. EJ comes from an elite junior college program and has impacted winning at a high level everywhere he's been. We can't wait to get him to Moscow."
In 33 appearances last season, 27 of which were starts, Neal finished in double figures 21 times. He averaged 11 points, four rebounds and a team-high 3.7 assists per game for the Rams. Neal also got it done on the defensive end with 31 steals and the third most blocks on the team with 20. He helped guide San Francisco City to a 29-4 record and a runner-up finish at the CCCAA State Championship, where he earned All-Tournament honors.
Neal, a product of Balboa City School in San Diego, played in 33 games during his freshman season at CCSF. He started in 18 games that season, averaging 7.2 points, 4.3 rebounds and 2.8 assists per game. Neal also added a defensive presence along with his scoring ability, recording 36 steals and 13 blocks. His two-way presence in the backcourt played a vital role for the Rams and helped lead them to a 32-1 overall record and a 2022 CCCAA State Title.
Stay up-to-date on all things Idaho men's basketball by following the team on Twitter and Instagram, @VandalHoops.
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