The Alabama State Hornets men’s basketball have secured a key addition out of the transfer portal, landing sharpshooting guard Tre Powell. The move adds another layer of scoring punch to an Alabama State squad looking to make noise in the SWAC.
Powell began his collegiate career at Shaw, where he redshirted his freshman season, and appeared in only 11 games for the Bears. He moved on to Harford Community College where he seemed to find his footing. He averaged a team high 14-2 points per game, and he developed a reputation as a reliable perimeter threat. During his time at Harford, Powell emerged as one of the top shooters in the JUCO ranks, shooting 44.2% from downtown. Powell aslo set program records with the 10 threes he canned against Baltimore City CC on January 10; he also set the HCC single-season three-point record with 104 makes, showcasing both volume and efficiency from beyond the arc.
A Needed Offensive Weapon
For Alabama State, this addition addresses a critical need—floor spacing and consistent outside shooting. In conference play, where defenses often collapse into the paint, having a guard who can stretch the floor changes everything. Powell’s ability to knock down shots at a high clip should:
- Open driving lanes for guards and wings
- Create more one-on-one opportunities
- Force defenses to extend beyond their comfort zone
Experience That Translates
Powell isn’t just a shooter—he’s a battle-tested player. His experience at both the JUCO level and within HBCU basketball gives him a level of maturity that should allow him to contribute immediately. Players with that kind of background often adjust quicker to new systems and expectations.
What This Means for the Hornets
This move signals that Alabama State is serious about building a competitive, balanced roster. Adding a proven shooter like Powell could be the difference in tight SWAC matchups, where a few timely three-pointers can swing momentum—and games.
SneakerShopTalk Take
This is the type of under-the-radar portal addition that doesn’t dominate headlines but can have a real impact in March. If Powell’s shooting translates at the Division I level, Alabama State may have just found a quiet difference-maker in its backcourt.
