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Men's Basketball 11/13/2025 12:30:00 PM Greg Hartlage, Director of Media Relations

Basketball Adds Pair to 2026-27 Roster

CULLOWHEE, N.C. – Western Carolina men's basketball head coach Tim Craft has inked two guards during the early signing period for the 2026-27 roster, welcoming Jyi Dawkins (Greensboro, N.C.) and Antonio McKoy (Salemburg, N.C.) to the squad.

"The Catamounts are excited to announce the signings of two perimeter players. Jyi Dawkins from Ben L Smith High School and Antonio McKoy from Harrells Chrisitan Academy," commented head coach Tim Craft.

"Both of these athletes are not only elite in their skills but also embody a competitive spirit that promises to enhance the team's success. Their winning attitudes and strong work ethics are expected to positively influence the program and contribute significantly to achieving victory in all areas," added Craft.

Dawkins comes up the mountain after a successful prep career at Ben L Smith High School where he earned 1st Team All-Area and All-District honors during his career. He earned HAECO All-Tournament honors and was a Gate City Classic MVP honoree.

He's an athletic and skilled guard capable of playing multiple positions that will bring an extremely competitive nature and impacts winning in every aspect of the game. Dawkins also was apart of the NCHSAA 3A State Championship at Ben L Smith while earning MVP honors and was a second-team all-state honoree.

"Jyi is a do it all guard, was MVP of the NC 3A State Championship and will bring length and athleticism to the guard position. Jyi has a polished skillset, a proven winner and Elite Competitor and will have an immediate impact on our program, campus and community," added Craft.

Coming from Harrells Christian Academy, McKoy joins WCU coming off an impressive prep career that includes multiple CIC Conference Player of the Year honors, while garnering multiple All-Conference honors. He has been a part of multiple All-Tournament team honors and won conference tournament MVP during 24-25 season.

McKoy is an elite athlete and competitive guard that is capable of playing multiple positions and will bring toughness and athleticism to the perimeter and will impact winning in every aspect of the game.

"Antonio is a Elite athlete and competitor, Has been the MVP of his conference and an all state performer the last couple years and also led his team to a State Final 4 appearance. He is a physical guard with the ability to touch the paint, can guard and play multiple positions and will have an immediate impact on our program, campus and community," commented Craft.

Following a grueling two-game season-opening road swing, Western Carolina men's basketball opens a season-long three-game homestand on Thursday night with a visit from NAIA counterpart Voorhees on Ingles Court at the Ramsey Center with a 7 p.m. tip-off.

Thursday night's game will be broadcast on ESPN+ (paid subscription required), with live streaming audio broadcast from the Catamount Sports Network beginning at 6:30 p.m. and live stats available online at CatamountSports.com.

Keep track of everything related to Catamount men's basketball and WCU Athletics through our social media outlets on Facebook (fb.com/catamountsports), Instagram (@catamountmbb @wcu_catamounts), and Twitter (@CatamountMBB @catamounts).

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