Bannan named to Preseason All-Big Sky Team

Montana's Josh Bannan earned some preseason recognition on Thursday, being named to the Big Sky Preseason All-Conference Team.

Bannan - a junior from Melbourne, Australia – led the Grizzlies in both scoring and rebounding during his sophomore campaign. His 15.1 points and 7.2 rebounds were enough to land him a place on the All-Big Sky Conference second team. He ranked in the top 10 in the conference in several major categories, including double-doubles with 11.

Head coach Travis DeCuire said that the first team should be composed of players from the top teams in the conference. He thinks Montana's finish in the conference is what kept Bannan off the first team last season, but the Griz forward has only used that as motivation to improve on his game this summer.

"I think what he got in the votes (last season) is what we earned for him and what he earned for himself, but also that leads to hunger," DeCuire said. "He's put a lot of time in this summer and I had someone tell me they think he's made over 100,000 shots since our last game. Sometimes, it's better to be left out every once in a while.

"It's good to see that the conference respects him and acknowledged his growth from freshman to sophomore year and would expect another jump."

After a successful season as a freshman where he took over a starting role down the stretch, Bannan improved on his game in the 2021-22 season. There was a learning curve his first year in the states. Not so in year two. He dominated in league play, bumping up his averages to 17.0 points and 8.2 rebounds.

He achieved great individual success, but it came during a year in which Montana didn't quite hit the lofty expectations held by the program. Bannan and his teammates were picked third in the Big Sky Preseason Polls released yesterday, a good sign that the team is expected to be competing for the conference crown again in 2023.

"I think the most important piece for any young player is to evolve through adversity, and I think he's been doing that. It's why his future is bright," DeCuire said. "I'm excited for him to get some recognition in the preseason from our peers and the media, and hopefully he goes out there and earns it."

Jubrile Bello, last season's MVP, was the only unanimous selection while being tabbed to repeat as MVP. Joining Bannan on the team are Daylen Kountz (UNC), Dillon Jones (WSU), Steele Venters (EWU), and Jalen Cone (NAU).

Big Sky Preseason All-Conference Team
Jubrile Belo, Montana State (MVP) *
Daylen Kountz, Northern Colorado
Dillon Jones, Weber State
Steele Venters, Eastern Washington
Josh Bannan, Montana
Jalen Cone, Northern Arizona

* - Unanimous Selection to the Preseason All-Conference Team

University of Montana Athletics

Related News

Players Mentioned

Josh Bannan

Related Videos