ESPN REPORT: LSU Secures Amiya Joyner from East Carolina in Major Transfer Move
In a significant move that has captured the attention of the college basketball world, LSU has officially announced the transfer of 6’2 power forward Amiya Joyner from East Carolina University. Joyner, who has emerged as one of East Carolina’s brightest stars, will now join a rapidly improving LSU program, adding much-needed depth and versatility to the Tigers’ roster. This transfer could prove to be a game-changer for LSU as they look to bolster their lineup for the upcoming season.
Amiya Joyner’s transfer is one of the most talked-about stories in the world of college basketball, not only due to his impressive on-court performance but also because of the implications it holds for both East Carolina and LSU. As the Tigers continue to build towards championship aspirations under head coach Matt McMahon, Joyner’s arrival represents a bold statement about LSU’s intentions to become a powerhouse in the Southeastern Conference (SEC) and beyond.
A Rising Star at East Carolina
Before making the decision to transfer to LSU, Amiya Joyner was already a standout player at East Carolina. During his time with the Pirates, Joyner quickly established himself as one of the team’s most valuable players, earning numerous accolades and recognition for his abilities on both ends of the court. Known for his explosive athleticism, sharp basketball IQ, and relentless motor, Joyner became a key figure for East Carolina, regularly putting up double-digit points and rebounds while also serving as a defensive force.
At East Carolina, Joyner was celebrated for his versatility. Standing at 6’2, he had the unique ability to play both forward positions, using his combination of size, speed, and agility to contribute in various ways. His rebounding and post-play were particularly impressive, and he often found ways to impact the game even when his scoring wasn’t the focal point. His defensive prowess, in particular, made him a highly regarded player in the American Athletic Conference (AAC), with several scouts highlighting him as a potential future NBA prospect if he continued to develop at his current rate.
Despite the team’s challenges in terms of overall success, Joyner’s individual performance was a constant bright spot for East Carolina. In the 2024 season, Joyner averaged 13.5 points, 9.1 rebounds, and 2.3 assists per game, numbers that not only placed him among the conference’s best but also attracted the attention of major programs looking to add a talented power forward to their roster.
LSU’s Growing Program Under Matt McMahon
LSU’s basketball program has been in a period of transition since Matt McMahon took over as head coach in 2022. McMahon, who previously built a successful program at Murray State, has been tasked with reshaping LSU into a contender in the SEC. After inheriting a program in need of a major rebuild, McMahon quickly implemented a more modern and dynamic style of play, focusing on fast-paced offense, tough defense, and the development of talent both from high school recruiting and the transfer portal.
In his first season at LSU, McMahon made it clear that he was not going to shy away from utilizing the transfer portal as a primary tool for improvement. His efforts were evident in the Tigers’ 2023 recruiting class, which featured a blend of seasoned transfers and talented freshmen. However, despite the team’s efforts, LSU was still undergoing the growing pains of a rebuilding program, finishing in the lower half of the SEC standings.
For McMahon, securing Amiya Joyner represents a major step forward in his vision for the program. LSU’s recruiting strategy has heavily emphasized adding experienced players who can immediately contribute, and Joyner fits that mold perfectly. His ability to score, rebound, and defend at a high level gives LSU the kind of player they need to compete at the highest levels of the SEC and, ultimately, the NCAA Tournament.
Joyner’s Impact on LSU’s Roster
Amiya Joyner’s addition to LSU’s roster provides an immediate boost in several key areas. One of the most pressing needs for LSU entering the 2024-2025 season was depth in the frontcourt. With several key players leaving the team, LSU needed a player who could provide both scoring and rebounding in the paint. Joyner, with his ability to contribute in multiple facets of the game, checks all of those boxes.
Offensive Versatility:
Joyner’s offensive game is characterized by his physicality and ability to attack the basket. His athleticism allows him to finish through contact in the paint, and his quickness makes him a nightmare for opposing defenders when it comes to picking and rolling to the basket. He also has a respectable mid-range jump shot, which allows him to stretch the defense and create opportunities for his teammates. His presence in the low post will also allow LSU to operate with more balance on offense, as he will be a primary option when it comes to creating plays in the paint.
One area where Joyner can significantly impact LSU is his ability to serve as a scoring threat in a variety of situations. He is capable of both catch-and-shoot situations and post-ups, which will make him a constant offensive presence for the Tigers. McMahon’s offensive system, which often involves ball movement and quick decision-making, will mesh well with Joyner’s playing style, and his offensive game should continue to expand as he gains more experience in a higher-level program.
Rebounding and Defensive Presence:
One of Joyner’s strongest attributes is his ability to crash the boards, an area where LSU struggled during the 2023-2024 season. Joyner’s tenacity on the glass will provide an immediate upgrade for LSU, particularly on the defensive end. His energy and willingness to fight for every rebound, combined with his leaping ability, make him a formidable presence on both ends of the court.
Defensively, Joyner’s versatility will allow him to guard multiple positions, which is essential in today’s fast-paced college basketball landscape. His quickness and ability to read the game make him a solid shot blocker and disruptor, and he is capable of switching on screens and guarding smaller players as well. His ability to protect the rim and defend the post will help LSU improve in a critical area where they have been vulnerable in recent years.
Leadership and Experience:
In addition to his on-court skills, Joyner’s leadership qualities will be invaluable for LSU. Having played at East Carolina, Joyner has experience in a program that faced adversity, yet he still managed to perform at a high level. His maturity and understanding of the game will provide LSU’s younger players with an example of how to work hard, stay focused, and perform under pressure.
As LSU looks to integrate several new faces into the program for the 2024-2025 season, Joyner’s experience will help provide stability on and off the court. His presence in the locker room and on the floor will be crucial in guiding LSU through what promises to be a highly competitive SEC season.
The Impact on East Carolina
Amiya Joyner’s departure from East Carolina leaves a noticeable gap for the Pirates, who will now need to find a way to replace the production and leadership he brought to the team. Joyner was the centerpiece of East Carolina’s offense and a key player on both ends of the floor, so his exit will certainly have an impact on the program’s trajectory moving forward.
However, East Carolina has been steadily improving under head coach Michael Schwartz, and the coaching staff will be looking to fill the void left by Joyner with other talented recruits and transfers. While Joyner’s loss is significant, the program is poised to continue growing and competing in the AAC.