Pearl River men’s basketball goes big with 2019 signing class

POPLARVILLE, Miss. — Four players from two of Mississippi’s more prestigious prep programs are headed to Pearl River.

The Pearl River men’s basketball team announced Friday that Biloxi’s Jariyon Wilkens, JaRonn Wilkens and Dontavius Proby have all signed with the Wildcats as part of their 2019 signing class. Gulfport standout Dontae’ Jackson has also signed with PRCC.

“First and foremost, I think Biloxi coach Seber Windham and Gulfport coach Owen Miller have had two of the top programs in the state for as long as I can remember, so to get any players out of Biloxi and Gulfport is always going to help your program,” PRCC coach Chris Oney said. “We’re extremely happy. We think our program got better and we’re looking forward to coaching them.”

PRCC Head Coach Chris Oney (center) talks with his team during a recent game

DONTAE’ JACKSON

PRCC’s staff believes Jackson will fit right in with their current system.

“Dontae can play and guard multiple positions,” Oney said. “He’s long, athletic, rangy and plays extremely hard.”

DONTAVIUS PROBY

Proby is a true guard whose prep experience excites Oney.

“He’s not a combo guard, he’s a point guard, which is important in the college game,” Oney said. “He has really good court vision and pace to his game.

“At the same time, he can make the shot if you leave him open.”

JARIYON WILKENS

Oney sees two complete players in the BHS twins.

“Jariyon’s position versatility is a luxury,” Oney said. “I can just put him out there and he’ll find where to be on the court to make it all work.

“He’s athletic, has a really high basketball IQ, can make the shot and plays really hard on defense. He’s just a really well rounded player.”

Jariyon Wilkens has been selected to play in the annual Mississippi-Alabama All-Star Basketball Game in Montgomery, Ala., on March 15.

JARONN WILKENS

“Jaronn is the same way. He’s very versatile. He doesn’t have a real position but is a really good basketball player. He’s extremely athletic and can handle the ball in pressure situations.

“They really complement each other well.”

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