Former Statesmen Receive Post-College Playing Opportunities

by Wade Steinlage

Oskaloosa–Former William Penn men’s basketball players Abrian Edwards and Omar Sherman recently earned tremendous opportunities to extend their cager careers.

Edwards was drafted in the Worldwide Invitational, and earlier this month participated in a showcase in Las Vegas where numerous general managers and coaches from the top leagues in America, Europe, and Asia were in attendance. Edwards was the lone NAIA player drafted, being picked 28th overall out of 72 total individuals.

While Edwards now waits to see what professional offers come his way, Sherman has already inked a contract. A 2018-2019 Second-Team All-American, he has signed with Thor Thorlakshofn of the Iceland Premier League (top league in Iceland).

Edwards, who was an Honorable-Mention All-American, broke the school’s single-season record for assists last year with 243. He averaged 13.8 points, 5.2 rebounds, and 7.4 assists, while also posting 37 steals and five blocked shots. Edwards shot 46.5% from the field, 78.0% at the charity stripe, and 47.2% from behind the arc. He topped all of NAIA Division I in total assists (243) and was second in assists per outing.

This past winter, Sherman averaged 16.1 points and 8.6 rebounds. He also posted 62 blocks, 52 assists, and 21 steals, while shooting 60.3% from the floor and 64.3% from the line. The Heart of America Athletic Conference Newcomer of the Year ranked ninth nationally in blocks per game (2.0) and 10th in both total blocks and field-goal percentage.