The St. Bonaventure Bonnies had a wild roller-coaster season that had fans feeling a wide range of emotions. They started the season going 14-1 but only won eight of their last 19 games if you count their NIT loss to Kent State.
The team’s MVP was Melvin Council Jr. He led the team in scoring (14.6), assists (4.1) and steals at (2.1). Council Jr. did a great job filling in for point guard Dasonte Bowen, who only played 10 games this season. Other solid contributors were Noel Brown, LaJae Jones and Chance Moore.
A big reason the Bonnies struggled was due to the loss of Bowen. Bowen proved to be a good facilitator and their second-best on-ball defender, next to Moore. Bowen averaged 11.1 points, 4.2 assists, 3.8 rebounds and two steals per game before his injury. He ended up getting surgery on his foot.
Looking ahead to next season, while Moore has announced his intentions to transfer, Bowen will return to St. Bonaventure. The team also just signed JUCO player Joe Grahovac, a 6-foot-10 big man from California. His athleticism can prove valuable for the Bonnies next season.
Similar to the Grahovac signing, Council Jr. left Bonnies fans with some hope for him returning next season.
“I know people are going to try and throw me a lot of money, but I’m not in for the money. I’m in it for the culture, fans and family. I just want to talk with my mom and my dad. I do feel like the best thing is to come back and play another year at Bonaventure,” said Council Jr.
Even though this season ended in disappointment, the Bonnies had an exciting season overall and have some things to look forward to next season.
