SMITHFIELD, R.I. -- Bryant men's basketball head coach Jamion Christian officially announced the first four roster additions for the upcoming 2026-27 season on Thursday.

This initial group are all true freshmen that will join the Black and Gold this summer following outstanding prep careers.

Below is a breakdown of coach Christian's vision when building the 2026-27 roster, as well as his thoughts on each of three true freshmen.

"Our vision is built on three pillars: collective size, elite shooting, and versatile playmaking. Last season, we possessed two of those three components but struggled to create advantages off the bounce. In this year's recruiting cycle, we prioritized elite playmaking to ensure we are fully equipped for the upcoming season."

"Before introducing our newcomers, I want to extend a sincere thank you to Ty Tabales, Keegan Harvey, and Joe Green. Their unwavering commitment to the growth of Bryant Basketball is invaluable. By staying the course, they provided us with a foundation that allowed us to recruit with a clear strategy and a significant competitive advantage."

The Freshmen

Grady Payton - Jefferson City, Mo.
Grady perfectly embodies our "size and shooting" mantra. His ability to play multiple positions and switch defensively makes him a seamless fit for our system. We are incredibly excited about his hunger to compete and believe his individual trajectory will be a catalyst for our team's overall growth.

• Averaged 23.7 ppg, 8.7 rpg and 2.5 apg at Capital City High School.
• Named to the Class 5 CMAC and MBAC All-State team.

Elijah Crispin - Pitman, N.J.
Addressing our playmaking needs was our top priority this off-season. Elijah is a dynamic creator who pairs deep three-point range with the vision to make everyone around him better. His high basketball IQ and seasoned background will provide an immediate spark to our backcourt.

• Averaged 17.0 ppg, 3.3 rpg, 3.2 apg and hit 76 3pFG.
• Scored 2,097 points at Pitman before spending a prep year at The Perkiomen School ... Finished career with 2,502 points.
• Earned All-Elite Prep League Second Team honors.

Connor Lyons - Charlotesville, Va.
Size, shooting, and high-level IQ—that is the identity of Bryant Basketball, and Connor exemplifies it. His positional versatility and exceptional outside shooting are ideal for our system. Coming from a rich basketball pedigree, we expect Connor to be "Day 1 ready" to contribute to our winning culture.

• VISAA DII First Team All-State selection that led his team to a state championship this year.
• Averaged 17.3 ppg and made 116 3pFG.

Elijah Hayeems - San Francisco, Calif.
He is a big guard which is essential for how we want to play here. Brings physicality as a rebounder to the position and has always been an excellent rebounder. Positional versatility is key able to play 1-3 making others better with his IQ.

• McDonald's All-American Game Nominee after an outstanding season at Big Tyme Prep Academy in Rockwall, Texas.
• Named MVP of the state championship game after leading his team to victory with 30 points.