Ryan Ayers

#42 Ryan Ayers- 6-7 / 210, Blue Bell, PA-

Ayers has ridden a sweet outside shot and strong fundamental defense to the starting small forward spot this year for the Irish. Playing in 30 games last season, Ayers averaged 2.9 points and 1.4 rebounds in 11.9 minutes per game. He connected on 37.5% of his shots from three-point range.

As a three-star recruit at Germantown Academy, Ayers was also recruited by Duke, Maryland, North Carolina, and Villanova. Dad Randy is an assistant coach for the Washington Wizards, playing at Miami, Ohio, and briefly with the Bulls in the NBA.

Ayers will need to step into Colin Falls' role of deep threat. For the Irish to be successful under the basket, Ryan must show a consistent ability to make shots from outside. In addition, Ayers will be an asset on defense. He can use his great wingspan and agility to cover opponents on the sideline. Ryan will probably play the fewest minutes of the starters, due to the ability of Zach Hillesland. However, Ayers' size and shooting allows Coach Brey to use the junior also as a shooting guard if Jackson and McAlarney get into foul trouble.