15 in 40: Defense Lomomba’s Calling Card

By Craig Leighton
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Updated: November 6, 2014

In the latest “15 in 40” article Craig Leighton takes a look at sophomore transfer Junior Lomomba who will be counted on to provide a strong defensive presence at the shooting guard position for the Friars this year.

Probably the player that Friar fans know the least about is 6’5 sophomore shooting guard Junior Lomomba. PC fans will be hearing his name a lot, however, as with the transfer of Josh Fortune, Lomomba will be playing a key role for the 2014-2015 Friars.

Lomomba joined the Friars last September after transferring in from Cleveland State. He averaged 5.8 points per game as a freshman for the Vikings during his only season with the team. One of the more highly regarded players to enroll at Cleveland State, his minutes were limited due to a foot injury which he never fully recovered from that year.

Originally from Montreal, Canada, Junior played his high school ball at Madison Memorial (WI) where he averaged 19 points, six rebounds, and five assists during his senior year. He finished as Madison’s second leading scorer in school history and also played on two Canadian National Junior Teams. ESPN had him ranked as the 38th best small forward in the 2012 class. At the time of his commitment Lomomba reportedly chose Cleveland State over Cincinnati, New Mexico State, UCLA and Washington State.

Here is Lomomba in action playing for Canada at the 2010 FIBA U17 World Championships:

Due to transfer rules Lomomba had to sit out last season for the Friars. When asked about sitting out he told Friarbasketball.com, “Last year really helped me. I was able to practice with the guys and guard players like (Bryce) Cotton every day. I think that made me better. As far as this year, I’m just excited to be out there competing.”

Known for his defense, Junior spent the extra time he had last season working on other aspects of his game in addition to improving his defense. “I worked on my overall game — getting stronger, my defense, just working at competing at a high level,” Lomomba said.

During the PC Elite Camp this past August God Shammgod raved about Lomomba’s work ethic saying that he worked as much on his game as Cotton did. Shammgod told us that he worked out with Lomomba every day on his ball handling and offense. On getting help from the PC great Lomomba said, “Shammgod took me under his wing and helped me a lot, especially last year, because I had to play point guard in practice. I’m very thankful (for his help) and I’m looking forward to showing people what I’ve been working on.”

So what can Friar fans expect from Lomomba this season? “I think I bring toughness to the program — a defensive presence. I don’t have a lot of in-game experience, but I’m looking to be another leader on the court, for our young guys especially.”

One of the things that Ed Cooley has not had since he has been at Providence is a big, tough, defensive presence at the offguard position. Lomomba brings that presence to the Friars. PC is going to be more of a defensive oriented team this year and Junior Lomomba will be a big part of that. His offensive contributions may be secondary, but could be a pleasant surprise for Friar fans thanks to his toughness and tenacity.

Here are some highlights from Junior’s 2011 season at Madison Memorial: