Basketball
MERCER Basketball Preview: Can Ryan Ridder's New Look Roster Defy Expectations?
SoCon Fast Break›
Nov 11, 202527:14
Listen now
Listen in the appMentioned in this episode
Episode Notes
The Mercer Bears are undergoing a massive roster overhaul in Year 2 under Coach Ryan Ridder! We look at a team poised to defy expectations with new talent from the transfer portal.
In This Episode:
- The Overhaul: Mercer replaces 72 PPG, losing 7 of 8 top scorers. We analyze why last year's fast tempo combined with poor defense made a brutal finish.
- X-Factors: Baraka Okojie (Memphis/George Mason transfer) is the high-potential guard who could be a major defensive disruptor and playmaker.
- New Foundation: Sophomore Captain Brady Shoulders provides the core, supported by transfers like 6'10" big man Armani Mighty (Size/Rim Protection) and veteran Zaire Williams.
- Prediction: We set the floor at 9th and the ceiling at 5th or 6th place in the Southern Conference, potentially making Mercer a major SoCon Tournament spoiler in Asheville!
Can Ryan Ridder and the Bears defy expectations?
Presented by Ingles Markets
Next listen
All from SoCon Fast Break →
Next listen
Rocco Miller + March Madness EXPANSION: A Cash Grab or More Access?
May 1, 202651:05
Listen guide
How do I listen to this episode of SoCon Fast Break?
"MERCER Basketball Preview: Can Ryan Ridder's New Look Roster Defy Expectations?" is an episode of SoCon Fast Break. Runtime 27 min. Published November 11, 2025. Hit play above to stream it here, or open the free Spot Sports app for background play and offline downloads.
Step by step
- Open Spot Sports. Get the free Spot Sports app for background play, lock-screen controls, and offline downloads.
- Or stream right here. Tap play on the episode card above. No app needed.
- Browse the full podcast. Jump to the SoCon Fast Break page for the rest of the catalog.
- Or subscribe in any podcast app. SoCon Fast Break ships on a standard RSS feed, so Apple Podcasts, Spotify, Overcast, and Pocket Casts all work too.
Quick FAQ
- When was this episode published?
- November 11, 2025.
- How long is this episode?
- 27 min.
- What podcast is this from?
- SoCon Fast Break. Browse the full back catalog on the show page.
- What does this episode cover?
- SoCon Fast Break covers basketball. This episode runs on the show's regular cadence.
