Courtesy of Eurobasket LLC We bring you last week's top former Leathernecks players who are currently playing in pro basketball.
Notice impressive performance of Brandon Gilbeck (18 points), Nick Hittle (10 points), and Drew Cisse (6 points).
#1. Brandon Gilbeck, a 7'0'' center who graduated from Western Illinois University in 2019, has been excelling as a professional basketball player in Taiwan. Recently, he played a crucial role in the Formosa Dreamers' victory over the closely-ranked Kings with a score of 99-90 in the Taiwanese TPBL. In this game, the 29-year-old showcased his talent by scoring 18 points, grabbing 8 rebounds, and making 2 blocks in just 28 minutes of play. The Formosa Dreamers, currently holding the second position in the league with a record of 22-14, greatly benefited from Gilbeck's exceptional performance on the court. His remarkable abilities were on full display as he contributed significantly to his team's win, proving himself to be a true champion. Throughout the season, Gilbeck has maintained impressive statistics, averaging 12.1 points, 9.9 rebounds, and 1.9 blocks per game, making him a leader in the league in blocks. Notably, Gilbeck holds both American and Taiwanese citizenship, allowing him to play in Taiwan as a domestic player and further demonstrating his value as a finalist.
#2. Nick Hittle, a 6'10''-F and Leathernecks alumnus from 2026, currently playing professionally in Australia, made a significant impact in the Eastern Mavericks' recent triumph against the ninth-ranked Rockets with a score of 105-93 in the Australian NBL One second division on Sunday night. Despite only playing for 10 minutes, he managed to score 10 points and secure 5 rebounds. The Eastern Mavericks, currently ranked sixth in the Central group with a record of 5-7, benefited greatly from his performance. Hittle's remarkable display of skill against the North Adelaide Rockets not only helped his team secure the victory but also played a crucial role in their journey to becoming the champion of the game. Throughout this season, Hittle has been averaging 6.4 points per game and 3.1 rebounds per game, showcasing his consistent contribution to the team.
#3. Guinean basketball player Drew Cisse, a 6'11'' center aged 25, graduated from Western Illinois in 2024. In the same year, he received the prestigious All-OVC Defensive Player of the Year award. Currently playing professionally in Canada, Cisse recently made his debut for the Ottawa Blackjacks in the Canadian Elite Basketball League. In his first game of the season, Cisse made a significant impact by contributing 6 points and grabbing 9 rebounds in just 16 minutes of play. Although the Ottawa Blackjacks have a somewhat modest 3-3 record so far this season, it is still early, and there is plenty of time for the team to improve. Cisse displayed exceptional skills in a recent game against Montreal, recording 6 points, 9 rebounds, and 1 assist. His stellar performance was instrumental in securing victory for his team, ultimately earning him the title of champion of the game. It is worth noting that Cisse is a naturalized American, adding to his diverse background and skill set.
#4. Canadian Marko Maletic, a 6'6'' guard and proud Leathernecks alumnus from 2025, currently plays professional basketball in Canada. He recently showcased his skills on the court alongside his teammate, the aforementioned Drew Cisse, in the latest Canadian Elite Basketball League game. During the game, Maletic played a crucial role in leading the Ottawa Blackjacks to a 90-79 victory over the Alliance with a stellar performance. Despite only playing for 13 minutes, he managed to contribute 5 points, marking his debut game for the Ottawa Blackjacks this season. In another game against Montreal, Maletic once again proved his worth by scoring 5 points and grabbing 2 rebounds, aiding his team in securing another important victory. His exceptional performance was pivotal in guiding his team to success, ultimately solidifying his status as the champion of the game.
Other former Western Illinois University players, who play in pro basketball:
Will Carius (6'9''-F-1998, played in 2020-22) plays for Peristeri in Greek GBL
Joe Petrakis (6'11''-C-2001, played in 2023-24) plays for Peristeri in Greek GBL
Dalan Ancrum (6'6''-F-1996, played in 2014-18) played for Dinamo Bucuresti in Romanian Liga Nationala few monts ago
Luka Barisic (6'10''-F-1998, played in 2021-22) played for Siroki in Bosnia and Herzegovina Division I last year
Michael Ochereobia (6'3''-F-1989, played in 2011-14) plays for B.Braun Sheffield Sharks in British SLB
Jesiah West (6'5''-F, played in 2022-24) plays for Iverioni in Georgian Superleague
JJ Kalakon (6'5''-G-2001, played in 2022-24) plays for Sumqayit in Azerbaijani ABL
JC Fuller (6'5''-SG-1994, played in 2012-16) played for Frontinos in Venezuelan SPB last year
James Claar (6'8''-F-1996, played in 2017-17) played for Bristol Hurricanes in British BCB last year
Vuk Stevanic (6'8''-C-2000, played in 2022-23) plays for Toledo in Spanish Segunda FEB
Notice: The list above includes only some of alumni playing currently in pro basketball. Check complete list of Western Illinois University basketball alumni.
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Ex-Players
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