Green Bay Phoenix Enhances Backcourt with New Recruit
In a significant move for the upcoming 2025-26 season, Doug Gottlieb and the Green Bay Phoenix have secured the commitment of LeBron Thomas, a standout player from Vincennes University. Despite sharing a first name with the NBA superstar, Thomas is making a name for himself as a promising young talent.
Thomas’ Impressive Junior College Performance
Last season, Thomas showcased his skills in junior college, averaging 15.9 points and 4.4 assists per game, and earning a place on the First Team NJCAA All-American selection for his role in leading his team to a commendable 30-4 record.
Recent Challenges for the Phoenix
Gottlieb’s first season in charge saw the Phoenix struggle significantly, culminating in a disappointing record of 4-28. The season was marked by various challenges, including a public feud with fellow player LeBron James, injuries to key players, and a disheartening sequence of losses. Notably, the team faced a tough 72-70 defeat at home against Division II Michigan Tech, part of a streak where they lost 25 of their last 27 games.
Signs of Improvement
Despite the challenging season, there were glimpses of potential for the Phoenix. Victories against Wright State and Detroit Mercy in February indicated that the program could build upon their success. The season finale also featured a closely contested overtime match against Oakland, which ended in an 87-84 defeat.
Offseason Roster Developments
Looking ahead, the coaching staff has been proactive in revitalizing the team’s roster. The addition of Thomas is a significant step, complementing an earlier signing of Justin Allen from Carnegie Mellon, who averaged an impressive 25.4 points per game last season. The return of critical players such as Marcus Hall, the second-leading scorer, and assists leader Preston Ruedinger will provide much-needed continuity.
Transfers and Future Prospects
While the program faces some challenging departures, including leading scorer Anthony Roy, who has transferred to Oklahoma State, and Yonatan Levy, who has entered the transfer portal, the focus remains on building a stronger foundation. The coaching staff’s priority is to establish momentum for the upcoming season with new talent and retained players.