EuroBasket Pro Spartans Weekly Update

- May 12, 2026

POSTED BY: Eurobasket News

EuroBasket Pro Spartans Weekly Update

Norfolk St. logo Courtesy of Eurobasket LLC

Here is the weekly review of the top performing Spartans alumni, who are currently playing in pro basketball.
Notice impressive performance of Kris Bankston (8 points), Jamonda Bryant Jr. (13 points), and Dana Tate Jr. (14 points).

   #1. Kris Bankston, a 6'9'' center who graduated from Norfolk State in 2023 and received the MEAC All-Defensive Team award that year, is currently playing professionally in Turkey for Turk Telekom Ankara. In a recent game against Manisa, despite Bankston's solid performance of scoring 8 points, grabbing 5 rebounds, and providing 1 assist in 21 minutes of play, his team was unable to secure a victory, ultimately losing 75-83 on the road. This game marked the end of the Regular Season, with Turk Telekom Ankara finishing with a record of 20-10. Bankston, in his first season with the team, has been averaging 8.0 points, 4.6 rebounds, and 1.2 assists per game over the course of 29 games played this season. Though the team fell short in this particular match, Bankston's contributions on the court have been notable throughout the season.

   #2. Jamonda Bryant Jr., a 6'1'' guard and 26-year-old Spartans alumnus from the class of 2023, has been making waves in the professional basketball scene in the Czech Republic. Recently, he led BK KVIS Pardubice to a 79-71 victory against the sixth-ranked Srsni Pisek in the Czech Republic Maxa NBL. In this game, Bryant Jr. showcased his skills by scoring 13 points, grabbing 5 rebounds, and making all eight of his free throws in just 22 minutes of play. His outstanding performance on the court not only contributed to his team's success but also solidified his reputation as a champion player. This victory helped BK KVIS Pardubice maintain their second-place position in the Places 1-8 group standings. Despite this being his first season with the team, Bryant Jr. has been putting up impressive numbers throughout the season, averaging 20.2 points, 4.8 rebounds, 4.0 assists, and 2.1 steals per game in the 40 games he has played so far. It's worth noting that Bryant Jr. also participated in the Eurobasket Summer League, an experience that played a crucial role in securing his position in professional basketball. His dedication, talent, and hard work have undoubtedly positioned him as a standout finalist in the basketball world.

   #3. Dana Tate Jr., a 6'7'' forward who is 26 years old and graduated from Norfolk St. in 2023, made a significant impact during his time with the team, helping them reach the final of the MEAC Tournament that year. Currently playing professionally in the Dominican Republic, Tate Jr. unfortunately couldn't prevent his team, Titanes, from suffering a heavy defeat in their recent game against the second-ranked Indios. Despite the team's 113-79 loss at home, Tate Jr. showcased his skills by scoring 14 points and securing 4 rebounds in 30 minutes of play. This notable performance is even more impressive considering it is only his third season in professional basketball. The game against the Indios marked Titanes' first loss after a streak of three consecutive victories. In the challenging match against the Indios, Tate Jr. displayed his talent by contributing 14 points, 4 rebounds, and 1 assist. Despite his individual efforts, Titanes ultimately fell short and were unable to secure the victory. Throughout the season, Tate Jr. has maintained solid statistics, averaging 11.5 points, 3.0 rebounds, and 1.3 steals per game across four appearances.

   #4. In a thrilling match on Saturday night, the former Spartans alumni from 2018, Preston Bungei, who currently plays professionally in Australia, led the Casey Cavaliers Cranbourne to a narrow 1-point victory over the 11th-ranked Sabres in the Australian NBL One league. Bungei's stellar performance on the court included scoring 11 points, grabbing 6 rebounds, and making 3 blocks in 38 minutes of play, showcasing his skills and experience. The Casey Cavaliers Cranbourne, currently placed 12th in the South group, owe much of their recent success to Bungei's contributions. In a standout game against Sandringham S, Bungei once again displayed his prowess by scoring 11 points, securing 6 rebounds, and providing 2 assists to help his team emerge victorious. His exceptional performance was crucial in securing the win and solidifying his reputation as a true champion in the sport. Throughout the season, Bungei has maintained impressive individual statistics, averaging 16.7 points per game, 5.2 rebounds, 2.8 assists, and 1.4 blocks in nine games, highlighting his significant impact on the team's success. Despite being a naturalized American, Bungei has proven himself as a key player in the Australian basketball scene, consistently showcasing his talent and determination on the court.

Other former Norfolk State University players, who play in pro basketball:

Tyrel Bladen (6'10''-F, played in 2023-25) plays for Jedinstvo in Montenegrin Erste Liga
Allen Betrand (6'5''-G, played in 2023-24) played for Feniks 2010 in North Macedonian Super League few monts ago
Jaylani Darden (6'5''-G, played in 2023-25) plays for Vellaznimi in Kosovan Superliga
Efstratios Kalogerias (6'10''-F/C-1997, played in 2019-21) plays for Falirou in Greek National League 1
Pendarvis Williams (6'6''-G-1991, played in 2010-14) plays for Erdenet Miners in Mongolian MBL
Cahiem Brown (6'5''-F, played in 2021-23) plays for Queen City Vipers in the ECBL
Aleek Pauline (6'1''-PG-1987, played in 2008-12) plays for Salesianos in Spanish Tercera FEB

Notice: The list above includes only some of alumni playing currently in pro basketball. Check complete list of Norfolk State University basketball alumni.