Junior guard Masiah Gilyard has been added to the 2024-2025 roster, Manhattan head coach John Gallagher announced. Gilyard shared his commitment to Manhattan on both X and Instagram.
"Masiah is a do-it-all guard," says Gallagher. "The thing that really jumped out to me about Masiah is his rebounding from the guard spot."
The 6'3" Gilyard honed his skills at Blinn College (JUCO) in Brenham, Texas. During the 2023-24 season, Gilyard averaged 13.4, 7.9 rebounds, and shot an impressive 51 percent (20-39) from three-point range. Additionally, Gilyard showed off his prolific scoring abilities by registering 10 or more points in 21 games, and corralled double-digit rebounds on nine occasions. His statistics stood out further by virtue of the eight double-doubles he posted this past season. In a game during his freshman season, Gilyard notched 21 points and 19 rebounds, epitomizing his impeccable toughness for a guard.
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"His presence on the court makes us all better," said Blinn teammate Kelvin Tamakloe, according to Austin County News Online. "Off the court, he's like a brother to everybody, giving advice, providing support when things get tough. Â
Gilyard was an integral piece in helping Blinn compile a 23-8 record which ranked them second in Region XIV South. His efforts earned him a spot on the All-Region XIV South First Team.Â
"Defends, rebounds, passes and he shoots a high percentage from 3," Gallagher also noted. "We are really excited to bring Masiah to Riverdale."
A native of Brooklyn, Gilyard starred at McKee/Staten Island Technical High School where he averaged 23 points and 14.5 rebounds and garnered the prestigious Warren Jaques Award as Staten Island's most outstanding boys' basketball player. Gilyard has two seasons of eligibility remaining.
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