Chris Beard Calls for Breakout from Dia and Storr in 2025
As Ole Miss basketball gears up for the 2025-26 season, all eyes are on seniors Malik Dia and AJ Storr. For head coach Chris Beard, these two athletes hold the key to the Rebels’ success.
A Season of Hope and Expectation
Ole Miss coach Chris Beard has high hopes for Malik Dia, now in his second Rebel year, and AJ Storr, the seasoned transfer from Kansas. The coach’s public call for Dia and Storr to elevate their game has struck a chord with fans and team members alike. “We’re going to need AJ and Dia to have the best season they’ve ever had for us to do the things we’d like to do as a team,” Beard emphasizes. This claim comes with an understanding that pressure is a privilege in competitive sports.
Building on a Solid Summer
Both players have had productive off-seasons. Ole Miss concluded its eight-week summer program with excitement and anticipation. With the roster now set, and the SEC schedule revealed, there’s a palpable eagerness to see the season unfold. For Dia, who started all 36 games last season, internal growth and leadership have been focal points. Plus, his consistent performance, boasting an average of 10.8 points and 5.7 rebounds, lays a solid foundation for what’s to come. According to On3, Ole Miss’s summer training has set the stage for a promising season.
Storr’s Redemption Arc
AJ Storr’s journey has been one of perseverance; after significant stints in St. John’s and Wisconsin, his recent transfer to Ole Miss marks a pivotal era in his career. With an average of 6.1 points last season, the Rebels hope Storr’s adaptability will bridge gaps left by key departures. Storr himself highlights the importance of learning Beard’s program values – details and daily intensity. His determination to seize every moment on the court is clear.
Crafting a Winning Culture
Malik Dia, embracing his role as a mentor and culture-shaper, acknowledges the weight of responsibility on his shoulders. Speaking on leadership, Dia admits, “I’d say I try to be a leader. I’m not perfect. This is my first time doing this in my career.” His enthusiasm for maintaining and fostering team culture is echoed by the support from new leaders like Travis Perry.
The Road Ahead for Ole Miss
With November 3 marking the start against Southeast Louisiana, the countdown to what promises to be a thrilling season is on. As Dia and Storr step into pivotal roles, Ole Miss fans remain optimistic about their team’s potential to reach new heights.
As stated in On3, the coming season could mark a new era for Ole Miss basketball, hinging on the dedication and breakthroughs of these remarkable players.
Prepare to see Ole Miss making waves this year with Dia and Storr at the helm, driving the team towards a hopeful and ambitious horizon in college basketball.
