Illinois State Basketball Adds Forward Louie Semona from Transfer Portal
Illinois State head coach Ryan Pedon has announced the addition of forward Louie Semona to the men’s basketball program, marking the team’s fifth transfer portal acquisition of the offseason. The 6-foot-7, 220-pound forward brings experience from Western Kentucky and Stonehill College, with two years of eligibility remaining after sitting out the 2023-2024 season due to injury.
Background and Eligibility
Semona, a native of Georgia, previously played for Western Kentucky University (WKU) and Stonehill College. After a season at WKU, he transferred to Stonehill, where he appeared in nine games before opting to sit out the remainder of the 2023-2024 campaign due to a back injury. His decision to transfer was confirmed by his agency, Seros Partners, as reported by local sports outlets.
“I aligned with their vision and where we wanted to end,” Semona said in a statement shared by the Illinois State athletics department. “This is a new chapter, and I’m excited to contribute to the program’s goals.”
Coach Pedon’s Perspective
Pedon highlighted Semona’s versatility and physicality during a press conference. “Louie is a shooter with size, and his ability to impact the game on both ends of the floor fits our system,” Pedon said. “He’s been through the transfer process before, and that experience will serve him well as he adapts to our program.”
The addition of Semona strengthens Illinois State’s frontcourt ahead of the 2024-2025 season. The Redbirds have been actively recruiting transfers to bolster their roster, with Semona joining four other newcomers in the class.
What’s Next for Illinois State?
Semona is expected to compete for a starting role in the 2024-2025 season. His ability to stretch the floor with his shooting and defend multiple positions could provide a significant boost to a team looking to improve its conference standing. The Redbirds finished the 2023-2024 season with a 14-17 record, including a 9-9 mark in the Missouri Valley Conference.
As the program continues to rebuild, Semona’s decision to join Illinois State underscores the growing appeal of mid-major programs in the transfer portal. With his experience and physical tools, he could become a key piece in the team’s turnaround efforts.
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