Turnbull transfers to UE from Butler
EVANSVILLE, Ind. – Following two years at Butler, Connor Turnbull has officially joined the University of Evansville men’s basketball program. The 6-foot-10 forward was rated a 4-star recruit out of high school by ESPN.
Turnbull is a native of St. Paul, Missouri where he played at Fort Zumwalt North High School. Following his junior and senior seasons, he earned Class 6 All-State honors. A member of the St. Louis Post-Dispatch All-Metro Team, Turnbull averaged 23.5 points and 12.7 rebounds in his final high school campaign. He completed his high school career with the career school records for career rebounds, single-season rebounds, career blocks and single-season blocks.
His junior campaign saw him finish with 14.9 points and 7.3 caroms while helping his team advance to the Class 6 state semifinals.
“We are extremely happy to have Connor and his family join our UE family. I have known Connor and his family for 3+ years. During that time, I have learned how humble and hard-working Connor and his family are,” Ragland said. “Our staff felt the need to continue to add size, skill and shooting to our roster. Connor fits all these characteristics perfectly.”
“Another key area of focus for our staff was to get players athletic and mobile enough to defend multiple positions. Connor has always had the ability to block and alter shots on the defensive end. Coach Rose has built a strong relationship with individuals in Connor’s inner circle. Having the trust and respect for those close with Connor will help in the development process both on and off the court. We look forward to getting Connor to campus and Aces fans will love watching him play.”
As a sophomore with the Bulldogs last season, Turnbull made his presence known despite being limited to nine games. In 105 minutes of play, he posted 16 blocks including six against East Tennessee State, which was one shy of the Butler program record. In the season opener against Eastern Michigan, he recorded a season-high 13 points while converting five of his six shot attempts.
Playing in 22 games as a freshman, Turnbull ranked third on the team with 15 blocks. He was a 44% shooter from the field while finishing at 47% from long range. Against Big East opponents, he shot 70% from outside.
“I chose Evansville because I believe in what coach Ragland is building and really enjoy the staff he’s put together,” Turnbull exclaimed. “The family environment he’s created just makes it feel like home!”