The College of Charleston men’s soccer team is making national noise. Just two weeks after blanking then–No. 15 North Carolina at Patriots Point, the Cougars went on the road Tuesday night and stunned No. 15 Furman with a 1–0 shutout.

Graduate midfielder Pavel Dashin provided the difference in the 52nd minute, bending a free kick from just outside the box into the net. That strike, combined with another disciplined defensive effort, was all the Cougars needed.

Goalkeeper Jourdan Schumacher and the back line stood tall once again, holding the Paladins to just two shots on target. The clean sheet was Charleston’s second of the season — both coming against nationally ranked top-15 opponents.

With the win, CofC has now beaten two top-15 programs in the span of 15 days, handing both UNC and Furman their first losses of the season. It’s a run that’s putting Cougar Soccer squarely in the national conversation.

Keep the Momentum Going: Join the Clean Sheet Club

Back-to-back shutouts against top-15 teams don’t just happen — they’re built on preparation, discipline, and support. That’s the vision behind the Clean Sheet Club.

The concept is simple: pledge any amount of money each time CofC men’s soccer records a shutout. Every clean sheet becomes direct support for our soccer student-athletes.

Charleston’s defense has already delivered twice this season in the biggest moments. By joining the Clean Sheet Club, fans can help make sure wins like these aren’t just highlights — they’re the start of something bigger.

Join the Clean Sheet Club

The College of Charleston men’s soccer team delivered one of its biggest wins in recent memory Monday night, defeating No. 15 North Carolina 2–0 at Patriots Point.

The Cougars, who entered the match 0–3, handed the Tar Heels their first loss of the season and earned their second straight victory over a ranked opponent in as many years.

After a scoreless first half, Charleston broke through in the 67th minute. Junior Matt Lenert pounced on a deflection in the box and buried it for his first goal of the year. Less than six minutes later, the Cougars struck again. Following a UNC turnover at midfield, sophomore Ben Bagshaw weaved around a defender and slipped a pass to Stian Bendvold, who sent it across the box for an easy tap-in by graduate student Pavel Dashin.

Charleston controlled the match from there, holding North Carolina to just one shot on target. Graduate student goalkeeper Jourdan Schumacher recorded the shutout, his first career win in a Cougar uniform.

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The victory marked Charleston’s second clean sheet over UNC in program history and the first since a 3–0 win in 1995. The Cougars also improved to 3–5–1 all-time against the Tar Heels. Bagshaw, meanwhile, continued his strong start to the season with an assist, giving him points in each of Charleston’s four matches.

CofC (1–3) will look to build on the momentum when it opens Coastal Athletic Association play at Elon on September 6, with kickoff at noon and streaming live on FloCollege.

Keep the Momentum Going

Beating a top-15 program on our home field shows what Charleston soccer is capable of. If we want more nights like this, the best way fans can make that happen is by supporting Men’s Soccer’s S.T.A.R.R. (Student-Athlete Recruitment and Retention) Fund. This fund goes directly to Charleston men’s soccer and the student-athletes who just put CofC on the national stage. And it’s 100% tax deductible!

👉 Make your donation to the S.T.A.R.R. Fund today.

This is how we keep building. This is how we keep winning. Let’s turn Monday night’s upset into the first step of something even bigger for CofC Soccer.

Donate to the STARR Fund Today

College football Saturdays are here. In Charleston, there’s no kickoff clock, no depth-chart drama… and that’s no problem.

In 2025, roster building is about money as much as schemes. The House settlement opened the door for schools to share roughly $20.5 million per year directly with athletes starting this season. That money won’t split evenly. Industry estimates say most of it will be funneled to football, with a thinner slice to men’s hoops and scraps for everyone else.

That’s where Charleston’s “no football” reality becomes a competitive edge.

Follow the money

One widely shared early estimate inside the industry broke it down like this: ~75% to football, ~15% to men’s basketball, ~5% to women’s basketball, ~5% to the rest. You can quibble with the exact math, but not the direction of travel. Football is the cost center; everything else gets what’s left.

Vendor data points the same way. Opendorse’s year-four snapshot projects that roughly 84% of rev-share dollars will go to football and men’s basketball at many schools. Translation: if you run an FBS program, the lion’s share is already spoken for before your Olympic-sport coaches even open a spreadsheet.

Charleston doesn’t have that drain. Every dollar we raise and deploy can move the needle where it matters on campus.

The blueprint is hiding in plain sight

Look around the non-football neighborhood:

• VCU: Administrators have publicly pegged their annual athlete-pay commitment in the $4–5 million range under the new model—and VCU doesn’t field football. That money can be targeted to hoops and depth sports without a scholarship-heavy roster eating first. VSCH higher Education
  

• Big East schools (another non-football set): A Power-conference AD flatly said some of them can “pay $6 million or more” to men’s basketball alone under revenue sharing. If you’re not carrying football, you can go all-in on your bell cow. Yahoo Sports
  

• Davidson and Dayton: They do play football—but in the Pioneer Football League, the NCAA’s non-scholarship FCS conference. That’s a very different budget picture than FBS scholarship football. It keeps resources pointed to where those schools win season after season: basketball. pioneer-football.org
  

File Charleston with that group: schools that either don’t have football at all, or don’t have the kind of football that swallows a department. That’s a lane you can actually drive in.

What it means in the portal-and-pay era

This is not about pretending budgets don’t matter. They do. It’s about efficiency.

At a typical FBS school, the rev-share pool and NIL ecosystem have to satisfy 85 scholarship football players, a practice roster, position groups, and a coaching staff building two-deep depth at every spot. By the time men’s basketball gets its share, you’re often talking about a smaller pie for 13 scholarships than fans assume—then everybody else fights for crumbs.

At Charleston, the pie isn’t any bigger; it’s less diluted. A dollar targeted to men’s basketball moves recruiting, retention, and on-court competitiveness more here than it does at a comparable Power 4 program weighed down by football commitments. That’s not spin. It’s reality.

Add in the new flexibility to pay athletes directly—again, roughly $20.5M per school per year as a cap to start—and you see the pathway for true mid-major bite. If you don’t have to fund a football machine, you can put real fuel in your basketball engine.

So… a quiet Fall?

Sure. No Saturday football scoreboards here. But Charleston’s calendar has always hit different. Our slow autumn sets up a noisy winter.

No football isn’t a gap to explain away. It’s an advantage to emphasize. And when that’s combined with our incredible tradition, recent athletic success, and Charleston’s status as a world-wide destination city, it puts CofC on a completely different level.

See you at TD Arena later this year. And maybe bring some earplugs. The winter’s going to be loud.

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Support CofC Student-Athletes

1. Donate to the STARR Fund — 100% tax-deductible.

2. Business Partnership — Partner with a student-athlete to promote your business.

3. CougShare Vendor Switch — Switch a vendor for a business service you already use; a percentage of the new revenue is donated back to CofC Athletics.

Questions or want to get started? Email tyler@thecharlestonedge.com.

If you own or advise a business, take the no-pressure savings check and see if CougShare is a fit.

Learn more about CougShare

Big news for Cougar Nation. With the NCAA v. House settlement now approved, The Charleston Edge Collective and College of Charleston Athletics are moving in lockstep to bring in the dollars our student-athletes need to compete and win. And we’re launching something virtually every Charleston business can get behind.

It’s called CougShare, and it’s powerful because no one writes a check. A business simply moves an everyday service - card processing, freight, payroll, marketing, utilities, supplies - to a vetted partner that matches or beats what they pay now. The partner then shares a percentage of its new revenue back to CofC Athletics to support student-athletes. Same (or lower) cost for the business. Steady, compounding dollars for the Cougars. The more businesses join, the bigger the monthly support grows. The Charleston Edge will handle the vetting, the switch, and the reporting; your participation turns routine bills into real support for our athletes.

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CougShare partner categories:
• Merchant credit card processing & POS
• Payroll & Human Capital Management (HCM)
• Parcel spend optimization + Freight/LTL (shipping logistics)
• Logistics & warehousing solutions
• Energy advisory & cost management
• E-ticketing platforms
• Industrial MRO: HVAC, electrical, plumbing, mechanical
• Pavement management: asphalt, concrete, striping
• Workplace safety: AEDs & compliance

Across the country, NIL changed the playbook. Universities and collectives are getting creative because raising ticket prices and asking donors for one more gift simply isn’t sustainable. And this is Charleston: a tight-knit business community that always shows up. With the Charleston business community behind us, there’s no reason the College of Charleston can’t dominate this space and build a significant, reliable revenue stream for our student-athletes for years to come.

If you take credit card payments, ship products, run payroll, or already spend money on the services we offer—or you know someone who does—take two minutes to reach out to us at CougShare.com. Let us show you how this can help save you money and support the Cougs. One switch at a time, we build an advantage that lasts.

At the same time, we’re doubling down on the STARR Fund (Student-Athlete Recruitment and Retention Fund). Created in response to the House settlement, the STARR Fund allows the College to share athletic revenue directly with student-athletes—boosting recruiting, retention, competitiveness, and expanding scholarships—and every gift is 100% tax-deductible. If you’re a donor, the STARR Fund is the most direct way to help right now.

Two simple actions:

• reach out to learn more about how CougShare can help your business, and

• share this article to any Cougar alum or CofC fan who is interested in supporting student-athletes.

This is our edge. This is how we continue winning and bringing home championships to Charleston.

Learn more about CougShare

The Charleston Edge

The Charleston Edge Collective is dedicated to empowering CofC student-athletes through NIL opportunities, ensuring they have the resources to build their brands and succeed both on and off the playing surface.

Support The Charleston Edge Collective

🔗 Donate Here: www.thecharlestonedge.com
📲 Follow us on Social Media:

• Instagram: @thecharlestonedge

• Twitter/X: @chsedgenil

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On June 7, a federal judge approved the biggest shift in college athletics since Title IX. The NCAA and its Division I member schools have agreed to a sweeping $2.8 billion antitrust settlement that will reshape college sports over the next decade.

This historic case, House v. NCAA, was brought by a group of former college athletes who argued that NCAA rules had illegally prevented them from earning money from their name, image, and likeness (NIL). After years of legal pressure and public backlash over the NCAA's amateurism model, the parties reached a settlement that compensates athletes for past restrictions and sets up a future where schools can directly share revenue with players.

The headline number is $2.8 billion. That’s how much the NCAA and its conferences will pay over the next 10 years to student-athletes who were denied NIL opportunities in the past. These back payments will mostly go to football and men’s basketball players—with an average of $120,000 per athlete spread over a decade—but women’s basketball and Olympic sports athletes will also receive a portion. The money comes from reduced NCAA payouts to schools, especially from March Madness and College Football Playoff revenues.

But even more important than backpay is what comes next: for the first time, schools can directly share revenue with their athletes. Starting July 1, 2025, schools that opt into the settlement can distribute up to $20.5 million a year to athletes. That number will rise over time and is currently capped at 22% of a school’s athletic revenue. This money is separate from NIL deals and represents a new quasi-salary model. Each school can choose how to divide the money among teams and athletes. As expected, football and men’s basketball will likely receive the largest shares.

Not every school plays football. And that’s where schools like the College of Charleston may quietly gain a major edge. Without a football program, more of the revenue-sharing pool can go to other sports. That gives Charleston a chance to be even more competitive in recruiting and retaining top talent. In this new system, mid-major programs without football could become much more appealing to student-athletes.

Another major change: the NCAA will eliminate scholarship limits and replace them with roster caps. Teams can now offer as many scholarships as they like, as long as they don’t exceed the roster limit. For example, basketball teams can now offer up to 15 scholarships (up from 13), and baseball teams up to 34 (up from 11.7). This may create more scholarship opportunities, but could also lead to fewer walk-ons or rescinded offers to stay under the cap at bigger schools.

To bring more structure to the chaotic NIL landscape, a third-party platform called NIL GO will launch. Developed by consulting firm Deloitte, NIL GO will serve as a clearinghouse to review all NIL deals worth $600 or more, using a fair market value algorithm to flag deals that appear inflated or unrelated to an athlete’s true publicity value. If a deal is flagged, athletes can revise the terms or submit to binding arbitration—a private dispute process overseen by a neutral expert. Because arbitration awards are rarely overturned in court, this process is expected to limit lawsuits and resolve disputes behind closed doors.

What makes NIL GO notable is not just its function, but who’s behind it. Deloitte has deep roots in both consulting and college athletics. Its dual role—consulting with athletic departments like Kansas and Alabama A&M while also enforcing NIL rules—raises concerns about conflicts of interest. Deloitte says its NIL enforcement team will operate separately from its advisory arm, with oversight from a new independent body.

That body is the College Sports Commission (CSC), formed by the Power Four conferences as part of the settlement. Led by former federal prosecutor and MLB executive Bryan Seeley, the CSC will oversee NIL GO and serve as the enforcement arm. However, it's still defining its rules, investigative powers, and penalties. The system will rely on self-reporting and voluntary compliance, which makes enforcement tricky without subpoena power or guaranteed cooperation from schools and donors. Whether the CSC will curb improper inducements or simply push them back underground remains uncertain.

This settlement doesn’t solve every issue. Legal battles are likely to continue. Title IX lawsuits are already in the works, and some schools or states may resist the changes. But the foundation of college sports is shifting. Athletes are finally being treated more like the revenue-generators they are. Whether that leads to stronger programs, more fairness, or new challenges remains to be seen. One thing is clear: this is a major turning point in college sports and things will never be the same.

The Charleston Edge

The Charleston Edge Collective is dedicated to empowering CofC student-athletes through NIL opportunities, ensuring they have the resources to build their brands and succeed both on and off the playing surface.

Support The Charleston Edge Collective

🔗 Donate Here: www.thecharlestonedge.com
📲 Follow us on Social Media:

• Instagram: @thecharlestonedge

• Twitter/X: @chsedgenil

Support The Edge

Kieron met with a group of young female golfers who train under PGA teaching pro Ty Gosnell, sharing his journey, offering tips, and helping build their confidence both on and off the course.

Special thanks to Ty Gosnell and Daniel Dickerson for making it happen.

🎥 Watch the video above.

The Charleston Edge

The Charleston Edge Collective is dedicated to empowering CofC student-athletes through NIL opportunities, ensuring they have the resources to build their brands and succeed both on and off the playing surface.

Support The Charleston Edge Collective

🔗 Donate Here: www.thecharlestonedge.com
📲 Follow us on Social Media:

• Instagram: @thecharlestonedge

• Twitter/X: @chsedgenil

Support The Edge

Chris Mack's first year at the helm of College of Charleston basketball was an undeniable success. Taking over in April 2024, Mack led the Cougars to a 24–9 overall record and a 13–5 mark in Coastal Athletic Association (CAA) play. Despite the challenges of integrating a brand new roster and coaching staff, Mack's leadership kept the Cougars at the top of the conference throughout the season.

The season concluded with a disappointing narrow 68–67 loss to UNC Wilmington in the CAA semifinals, kickstarting the offseason sooner than expected.

Following the season, the Cougars faced historic roster turnover (which is becoming the new normal in college basketball), losing all five starters and several key contributors to graduation and the transfer portal. In response, Coach Mack and his staff masterfully executed a strategic and aggressive approach to roster reconstruction, bringing in a blend of seasoned transfers and promising young freshmen.

Below is a detailed look at the new and returning players:

Newcomers:

Bryce Baker – Senior Guard (6'5", 200 lbs)

• Hometown: Mooresville, NC

• High School: Donda Academy (CA)

• Previous School: Winthrop University

• 2024–25 Stats at Winthrop: 7.4 PPG, 3.1 RPG, 1.0 APG

  • 41.2% FG, 39.4% 3PT (65-165), 57.9% FT

  • Season High: 24 points @ UNC Asheville (Jan 18), 7 threes @ Longwood (Feb 27)

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Bryce Baker joins Charleston after a breakout season at Winthrop where he emerged as one of the top three-point shooters in the Big South. He knocked down 65 triples at nearly 40%, including a pair of 7-three outings late in the year — most notably a 24-point explosion at UNC Asheville. At 6’5", Baker offers size and versatility on the wing, with the ability to space the floor, defend bigger guards, and contribute as a secondary scorer. His confidence as a shooter and experience at the Division I level make him a strong addition to a Charleston backcourt that will look very different from last season.

Jlynn Counter – Senior Point Guard (6'3", 195 lbs)

• Hometown: Oklahoma City, OK

• Previous Schools: Middle Tennessee State, IUPUI

• 2024–25 Stats (Middle Tennessee): 10.5 PPG, 4.2 RPG, 3.5 APG, 43.4% FG, 77.4% FT

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Jlynn Counter brings veteran poise and steady production to Charleston’s point guard position. He started 55 games over the past two seasons—first at IUPUI, then Middle Tennessee—and enters the year with over 1,200 career points and more than 300 assists at the Division I level. He averaged double figures each of the last three years, and last season posted a 2.4 assist-to-turnover ratio while leading Middle Tennessee in assists and free throw percentage.

Counter is a physical, downhill guard who can facilitate, absorb contact at the rim, and defend multiple positions. He’ll be one of the most experienced ball-handlers in the CAA from day one and is expected to anchor the Cougars’ backcourt both on the floor and in the locker room.

Chris Davis Jr. – Freshman Guard (6'4", 195 lbs)

• Hometown: Sun Prairie, WI

• High School: Sun Prairie East

• Accolades:

  • Two-time Big Eight Conference Player of the Year

  • Fifth all-time leading scorer in Wisconsin high school basketball history

  • Played for Team Herro 17U on the Nike EYBL circuit

  • Led Sun Prairie East to the WIAA Sectional Finals as a senior

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Chris Davis Jr. arrives in Charleston as one of the most accomplished scorers the state of Wisconsin has ever produced. With over 2,200 career points, he sits fifth all-time in Wisconsin scoring history—ranking ahead of names like Sam Dekker, Johnny Davis, and Sam Okey. A fierce competitor and two-time Big Eight Player of the Year, Davis led Sun Prairie East to a deep postseason run in his final season, then turned heads on the Nike EYBL circuit with Team Herro, one of the nation’s premier AAU programs.

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Mister Dean – Sophomore Guard (6'6", 210 lbs)

• Hometown: Miami, FL

• Previous School: USC Upstate

• 2024–25 Stats: 15.7 PPG, 5.5 RPG, 1.4 APG; 57.2% FG

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Dean made an immediate impact at USC Upstate, earning Big South Freshman of the Year honors. His athleticism and defensive versatility allow him to guard multiple positions effectively. Dean's slashing ability and transition play will bring energy and toughness to the Cougars' lineup. His experience and skill set are expected to contribute significantly on both ends of the floor. Oh, and did we mention he made Sportscenter’s #1 Top Play?

Colby Duggan – Junior Forward (6'7", 225 lbs)

• Hometown: Monson, MA

• Previous School: Campbell University

• 2024–25 Stats (Campbell): 15.7 PPG, 3.3 RPG, 1.3 APG; 46.1% FG, 34.0% 3PT, 72.6% FT

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Duggan was one of the most efficient and consistent scorers in the CAA last year, earning First-Team All-Conference honors after averaging 15.7 points on 46.1% shooting from the field. He hit 55 threes at 34% and proved to be a difficult matchup as a stretch forward with legitimate size and touch.

He had multiple signature performances, including a 33-point explosion at Delaware (12-18 FG, 4-4 from three) and a 32-point outing in Chapel Hill against North Carolina (11-18 FG, 5-9 from three, 5-7 FT), showing he can rise to the occasion in big environments. Duggan scored in double figures in 25 of 32 games, reached the 20-point mark nine times, and hit at least three triples in 10 games.

At Charleston, he’ll be counted on as one of the top scoring options in a brand-new lineup — and one of the few players in the league who’s proven he can score 30+ on any given night.

AJ Fowler – Freshman Guard (6'4", 150 lbs)

• Hometown: Fayetteville, AR

• High School: Jackson Hole High School (WY)

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Standing at 6'4", AJ Fowler has honed his perimeter game, setting school records for three-pointers made in both a single game and a season at Jackson Hole High School. Fowler’s experience with AAU circuits, including Lang Academy, has exposed him to competitive play beyond his hometown, preparing him for the collegiate level. As he transitions to Charleston, his shooting prowess and work ethic position him as a valuable asset in Coach Mack’s system.

Connor Hickman – Graduate Guard (6'3", 200 lbs)

• Hometown: Bloomington, IN

• Previous Schools: Bradley University, University of Cincinnati

• 2024–25 Stats (Cincinnati): 4.3 PPG, 2.5 RPG, 1.2 APG; 37.1% FG, 34.9% 3PT

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Connor Hickman brings a veteran presence and 1,000-point scoring pedigree to Charleston’s backcourt. A proven three-point shooter (career 35% from deep), Hickman spent three seasons at Bradley where he was a two-year starter, then transferred to Cincinnati last season to play in the Big 12. He made 27 threes in limited minutes at UC while averaging over 15 minutes per game against elite competition.

Hickman has a mature, steady game — he doesn't turn the ball over, can hit shots off the catch or off movement, and understands how to operate within a team system. He’ll give Charleston a trusted rotational guard who can help space the floor, defend multiple positions, and raise the team’s basketball IQ. Expect him to be an immediate leader in the locker room and a key piece of Coach Mack’s backcourt rotation.

Martin Kalu – Freshman Guard (6'6", 210 lbs)

• Hometown: Quakenbrück, Germany

• Previous Team: FC Bayern München II

• 2023–24 Stats (Regionalliga / Bayern II): 15.9 PPG, 4.5 RPG, 2.2 APG; 43.5% FG, 33.5% 3PT

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One of the most intriguing freshmen in the CAA this season, Martin Kalu arrives in Charleston with professional experience under his belt, having played in Germany’s Regionalliga for FC Bayern München II. At 6'6", Kalu combines positional size with a smooth, confident scoring package, able to shoot it from deep, operate in the midrange, and play through contact at the rim. His 15.9 points per game last season came against grown men, not teenagers, and that experience against pros will give him a leg up in adjusting to the college game.

Kalu plays with poise and maturity beyond his years, with the versatility to guard 2s and 3s and switch across multiple actions defensively. While he'll still be adjusting to the American pace and physicality, his offensive instincts and pro background give him the tools to contribute early in Charleston's system. Long-term, he has the upside to be one of the more impactful international players the program has brought in.

Chol Machot – Redshirt Sophomore Center (7'0", 200 lbs)

• Hometown: Melbourne, Australia

• Previous School: Florida SouthWestern State College

• 2024–25 Stats (FSW): 11.6 PPG, 6.5 RPG, 2.7 BPG; 60.4% FG, 36.6% 3PT

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Chol Machot arrives at Charleston as a modern 7-footer — long, mobile, and skilled on both ends of the floor. At Florida SouthWestern, he averaged 11.6 points, 6.5 boards, and nearly 3 blocks per game while shooting over 60% from the field and an impressive 36.6% from three. His ability to space the floor offensively and protect the rim defensively makes him a high-upside fit in Chris Mack’s frontcourt rotation.

With fellow 7-footer Christian Reeves anchoring the paint, Machot adds a complementary dimension — he's capable of playing alongside another big or sliding into the five in smaller, faster lineups. He was originally committed to Mississippi State before flipping to Charleston, where he'll have the chance to make an immediate impact in a deep, retooled frontcourt. If the game slows down for him early, he has all the tools to be one of the most versatile bigs in the CAA.

Will Mortimore – Sophomore Forward (6'9", 220 lbs)

• Hometown: Maitland, New South Wales, Australia

• Previous School: Colorado Mesa University

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Mortimore is a physical, blue-collar forward who gives Charleston size, motor, and long-term upside in the frontcourt. Originally from Australia, he spent his freshman year at Colorado Mesa before transferring to CofC, where he'll continue his development in a more structured Division I environment. At 6'9", he brings ideal size and toughness to the four or small-ball five, with a skillset built around rebounding, screen-setting, and interior defense.

Christian Reeves – Redshirt Junior Center (7'2", 253 lbs)

• Hometown: Charlotte, NC

• Previous Schools: Duke University, Clemson University

• Notable: Former four-star recruit; Top-100 nationally out of Oak Hill Academy

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Christian Reeves brings elite size and ACC experience to Charleston's frontcourt. A 7'2" rim protector with a 7'5" wingspan, Reeves spent two years at Duke learning under Jon Scheyer before transferring to Clemson, where he gained valuable high-major reps in the ACC. He was ranked as a Top-100 prospect coming out of Oak Hill Academy and has trained in some of the most competitive programs in college basketball.

Reeves excels as a vertical threat on both ends — he’s a lob target, shot-blocker, and defensive anchor who alters how opposing teams attack the paint. His mobility and timing make him more than just a space-eater, and his experience going against pro-level bigs in the ACC gives him a unique edge in the CAA. With Charleston rebuilding its core, Reeves will have the opportunity to take on a major role and be a stabilizing force in the middle from day one.

Kendall Taylor – Graduate Guard/Forward (6'5", 205 lbs)

• Hometown: Sacramento, CA

• High School: Capitol Christian High School

• Previous Schools: Danville Area Community College, Wingate University

• 2024–25 Stats at Wingate: 24.4 PPG, 8.1 RPG, 4.6 APG; 53.5% FG, 37.1% 3PT, 87.0% FT

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Kendall Taylor arrives at Charleston following a historic senior season at Wingate University, where he led the South Atlantic Conference (SAC) in scoring and earned D2CCA Third-Team All-American honors. His offensive arsenal was on full display throughout the season, including a school-record 44-point performance against UVA Wise, where he went a perfect 20-for-20 from the free-throw line. Taylor's versatility allows him to contribute as both a guard and forward, bringing scoring, rebounding, and playmaking abilities to the Cougars. His leadership and experience are expected to make an immediate impact, providing a steady presence on and off the court.

Chadlyn Traylor – Freshman Point Guard (6'3", 180 lbs)

• Hometown: Huntersville, NC

• High School: North Mecklenburg High School

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Traylor arrives at Charleston as a proven winner from one of North Carolina’s powerhouse programs. He helped lead North Mecklenburg to back-to-back NCHSAA 4A state championships and was named Queen City Conference Player of the Year during his senior campaign. A McDonald's All-American nominee, Traylor plays with poise, pace, and toughness — a true floor general who defends, distributes, and doesn’t shy away from big moments. He’ll add immediate depth at point guard and brings the kind of pedigree and mentality that fits perfectly in Chris Mack’s system.

Returners:

Jaxon Prunty – Redshirt Freshman Guard (6'6", 190 lbs)

• Hometown: Charlotte, NC

• High School: Lexington (SC)

• Position: Guard/Forward

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Prunty started one game early last season before suffering a shoulder injury that required surgery and sidelined him for the remainder of the year. He redshirted and has spent the offseason rehabbing and rebuilding strength, and is expected to be 100% by the start of the season. At 6'6" with length and fluid athleticism, he’s one of the most intriguing long-term pieces on the roster — a versatile perimeter player who can defend multiple positions and eventually slide into a 1-through-4 role.

Djordje Ćurčić – Junior Guard (6'3", 190 lbs)

• Hometown: Čačak, Serbia

• Previous School: St. Louis

• Position: Guard

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Ćurčić returns as a veteran guard with international experience and a sound feel for the game. He’s played limited minutes his first two years but has shown flashes of being a confident shooter and reliable ball-mover when called upon. Originally from Serbia, Ćurčić brings poise and professionalism to Charleston’s backcourt, and his familiarity with the system will be a plus on a team with so many new faces. He’ll add mature depth behind the team’s new lead guards and continue to push for a larger role.

Joey Scarpitti – Sophomore Guard (5'11", 170 lbs)

• Hometown: Cleveland, OH

• High School: St. Edward (OH)

• Position: Point Guard

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Scarpitti returns as a walk-on point guard who adds energy and grit in practice and on the bench. While his in-game minutes have been limited, he’s carved out a valuable role behind the scenes with his work ethic, vocal leadership, and understanding of the team’s system. At 5'11", he’s undersized but fundamentally sound and steady with the ball — the kind of player who helps raise the floor of the program in day-to-day competition. He’ll continue to provide depth and culture as one of the few returning Cougars on a reloaded roster.

The Charleston Edge

The Charleston Edge Collective is dedicated to empowering CofC student-athletes through NIL opportunities, ensuring they have the resources to build their brands and succeed both on and off the playing surface.

Support The Charleston Edge Collective

🔗 Donate Here: www.thecharlestonedge.com
📲 Follow us on Social Media:

• Instagram: @thecharlestonedge

• Twitter/X: @chsedgenil

Support The Edge

After helping lead the College of Charleston volleyball team to a CAA Championship and an NCAA Tournament berth, rising senior Olivia Mae Van Der Werff is spending her summer where few student-athletes go: inside a real estate capital markets firm.

Earlier this month, Olivia Mae began an internship at Essex Capital Markets, a boutique firm in Chicago that specializes in structuring and sourcing capital for commercial real estate transactions. It’s a far cry from the volleyball court—but the pace, pressure, and precision of the industry feel right at home for someone used to competing at a high level.

“I chose to intern at Essex Capital Markets this summer because I wanted a front-row seat to how deals actually get done,” she said. “Coming from a background as a student-athlete, I’ve always thrived in fast-paced, competitive environments, and finance felt like a natural fit. Essex stood out because of their hands-on approach and exposure to real transactions.”

In her first few weeks, Olivia Mae has sat in on meetings with industry professionals, worked on market analysis, and helped improve the firm’s internal systems for managing deal flow. She’s gaining early experience in financial structuring, learning how debt and equity are deployed in property acquisitions, and building the technical skills to match her athletic discipline.

“Long term, I’m definitely exploring a career in finance,” she said. “I’m still learning what direction I want to take, but this internship is a big step toward figuring that out.”

The internship also gives Olivia Mae the chance to experience a new city. Originally from Kansas and now based in Charleston, the move to Chicago marks another leap in independence—balancing the challenges of professional life in a new environment with personal growth and career discovery.

And even with a packed schedule, Olivia still makes time for one of her favorite hobbies: coffee. What started in Charleston as a casual Instagram series reviewing local coffee shops has followed her to Chicago, where she’s now spotlighting new spots and giving her followers a taste of the city through her lens—one latte at a time. (Charleston coffee shops - reach out to Olivia!)

This past season, Olivia had one of the most memorable moments of her athletic career when CofC drew Utah in the NCAA Tournament, setting up a once-in-a-lifetime match against her older sister, Amelia Van Der Werff. The game was emotional, competitive, and deeply meaningful for both players—and their family.

“This is a dream come true for me. Honestly, it’s the best day of my life,” Olivia told reporters. “I have asked to play against Utah for the past three years. I really wanted to play against my sister before she graduated. I’m super excited.”

For anyone watching, it was more than just a volleyball match. It was a story of family, love, and everything college sports should be about.

Now, as she looks ahead to her senior year, Olivia Mae Van Der Werff is proving that her impact stretches far beyond the gym. Whether it’s analyzing real estate deals, leading on the volleyball court, taking care of business in the classroom, or building a personal brand, she’s making the most of every opportunity while at CofC.

Follow Olivia Mae on Instagram

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Tomorrow’s the day!

Join Charleston Men’s Basketball head coach Chris Mack and staff on Tuesday, May 13, from 12:00–2:00 PM at Hall’s Chophouse (434 King Street) for an intimate, first-class lunch experience in support of College of Charleston’s Men’s Basketball’s NIL efforts. Tickets are $500 per person.

RSVP Now

What to expect:

• Latest on CofC Basketball: Coach Mack will bring you up to speed on everything happening with the program.

• Transfer Portal Update: A concise recap of recent portal moves and what they mean for next season.

• 2025–26 Team Insights: A sneak peek at the vision and direction for the upcoming year.

Event Details:

• Date: Tuesday, May 13, 2025

• Time: 12:00 PM – 2:00 PM

• Location: Hall’s Chophouse, 434 King Street

• Tickets: $500 per person (includes lunch + NIL support)

Sponsored by Hall’s Chophouse, Coldwell Banker Commercial Atlantic, and The Charleston Edge.

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Don’t miss this rare opportunity to break bread with Cougar hoops leadership—and help fuel the future of Charleston basketball!

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One Week from Today!

Join Charleston Men’s Basketball head coach Chris Mack and staff on Tuesday, May 13, from 12:00–2:00 PM at Hall’s Chophouse (434 King Street) for an intimate, first-class lunch experience in support of College of Charleston’s Men’s Basketball’s NIL efforts. Tickets are $500 per person.

RSVP Now

What to expect:

• Latest on CofC Basketball: Coach Mack will bring you up to speed on everything happening with the program.

• Transfer Portal Update: A concise recap of recent portal moves and what they mean for next season.

• 2025–26 Team Insights: A sneak peek at the vision and direction for the upcoming year.

Event Details:

• Date: Tuesday, May 13, 2025

• Time: 12:00 PM – 2:00 PM

• Location: Hall’s Chophouse, 434 King Street

• Tickets: $500 per person (includes lunch + NIL support)

Sponsored by Hall’s Chophouse, Coldwell Banker Commercial Atlantic, and The Charleston Edge.

RSVP Now

Don’t miss this rare opportunity to break bread with Cougar hoops leadership—and help fuel the future of Charleston basketball!

Support The Charleston Edge Collective

🔗 Donate Here: www.thecharlestonedge.com
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• Instagram: @thecharlestonedge

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The College of Charleston Women's Golf team is headed to Birdwood Golf Course in Charlottesville, Virginia, from May 5–7 for the NCAA Charlottesville Regional—marking the program’s 11th regional appearance and its highest-ever seeding at No. 7.

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The Cougars will square off against a strong field featuring South Carolina, Virginia, Ole Miss, Florida, UCLA, UCF, NC State, BYU, Princeton, Richmond, and Radford. Each of the 12 teams will bring six golfers, all vying for a coveted spot in the 2025 NCAA Women’s Golf National Championship at the prestigious Omni La Costa Resort in Carlsbad, California. The top five teams from each region and the lowest-scoring individual not on an advancing team will move on to the championship stage.

Charleston punched its ticket to Charlottesville, capturing a CAA-record sixth conference title on April 13—its third league crown in the last four years.

CAA Golfer of the Year Emma Schimpf leads the charge, joined by fellow standout Molly Hardwick on the All-CAA First Team. Adrian Anderson earned Second Team honors, while longtime head coach Jamie Futrell was named CAA Coach of the Year, further solidifying the Cougars’ reputation as a powerhouse program.

Riding a wave of momentum, Charleston heads into regionals with a mix of experience, elite talent, and strong leadership, well-positioned to make a serious run at the national stage.

The Charleston Edge

The Charleston Edge Collective is dedicated to empowering CofC student-athletes through NIL opportunities, ensuring they have the resources to build their brands and succeed both on and off the playing surface.

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Go Cougs!

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Over the past week, College of Charleston secured two marquee portal commitments: 7-foot center Chol Machot—fresh off a season at Florida Southwestern where he averaged 11.6 points, 6.5 rebounds, and 2.7 blocks per game while shooting 60.4% from the floor and 36.6% from deep—and Division II All-American G/F Kendall Taylor, who starred at Wingate University with 24.6 points, 8.2 rebounds, and 4.7 assists per game on 54% shooting (38% 3-point, 88% FT). Their arrival amplifies what’s shaping up to be one of the deepest, most talented Cougar lineups ever.

Chol Machot, 7'0" Swiss-Army Center
After a season at Florida Southwestern State College, Machot averaged 11.6 points, 6.5 rebounds, and 2.7 blocks per game over 27 outings, shooting 60.4% from the floor and sinking 36.6% of his threes . His decision to flip from Mississippi State to Charleston is a statement: he’ll anchor the paint, stretch defenses with his 3-point range, and protect the rim with his shot-altering timing.

Kendall Taylor, Wingate’s D-II Scoring Juggernaut
Taylor arrives off two standout seasons at Wingate University, where he averaged 24.6 points, 8.2 rebounds, and 4.7 assists per game on 54% shooting (including 38% from three and 88% at the line)—earning D2CCA Third-Team All-American honors and SAC Player of the Year consideration . His isolation scoring and improved playmaking give Mack a go-to option when the game hangs in the balance.

Beyond those headliners, Mack’s added talent across every spot:

• Christian Reeves (7'2") brings four-star pedigree from Oak Hill and experience at Duke and Clemson. His elite rim protection and lob-finishing ability change the paint presence overnight.

• Colby Duggan (6'7"), a Campbell transfer and First-Team All-CAA leading scorer, injects mid-range mastery and rebounding grit.

• Martin Kalu (6'5") has been pro since 15 in Germany’s FC Bayern München II, posting 19.6 PPG, 5.4 RPG, and 2.6 APG on 44.3% FG and 34.3% 3P . His Euro-polish spacing and playmaking elevate every half-court set.

• Jlynn Counter (6'3"), from Middle Tennessee State, averaged 10.6 PPG on 43% FG and brings Horizon League All-Conference savvy from his IUPUI days.

• Connor Hickman, a Bradley and Cincinnati veteran with 1,000+ career points and a 41% FG clip, offers proven scoring and leadership.

• Bryce Baker (6'5"), the Winthrop sharpshooter who led his team in three-point percentage, stretches defenses and forces help rotations.

On top of that, incoming freshman Chadlyn Taylor arrives as a state-championship point guard with poise and playmaking chops, while previous starter Jaxon Prunty has a lot to prove after going down with a season-ending shoulder surgery, while Djordje Ćurčić and Joey Scarpitti provide two-way intensity, crafty scoring, and leadership off the bench.

Between Machot’s interior-to-perimeter versatility, Kendall Taylor’s unstoppable scoring, and a supporting cast that blends size, shooting, and experience, every lineup tilt favors Charleston. Add in Mack’s proven system and the TD Arena crowd, and you’ve got the recipe for a season that could rewrite program history.

Coug Nation, buckle up—this could be the best team to ever be assembled on George Street.

The Charleston Edge

The Charleston Edge Collective is dedicated to empowering CofC student-athletes through NIL opportunities, ensuring they have the resources to build their brands and succeed both on and off the playing surface.

Support The Charleston Edge Collective

🔗 Donate Here: www.thecharlestonedge.com
📲 Follow us on Social Media:

• Instagram: @thecharlestonedge

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Join Charleston Men’s Basketball head coach Chris Mack and staff on Tuesday, May 13, from 12:00–2:00 PM at Hall’s Chophouse (434 King Street) for an intimate, first-class lunch experience in support of College of Charleston’s Men’s Basketball’s NIL efforts. Tickets are $500 per person.

RSVP Now

What to expect:

• Latest on CofC Basketball: Coach Mack will bring you up to speed on everything happening with the program.

• Transfer Portal Update: A concise recap of recent portal moves and what they mean for next season.

• 2025–26 Team Insights: A sneak peek at the vision and direction for the upcoming year.

Event Details:

• Date: Tuesday, May 13, 2025

• Time: 12:00 PM – 2:00 PM

• Location: Hall’s Chophouse, 434 King Street

• Tickets: $500 per person (includes lunch + NIL support)

• Seats are limited—RSVP by May 10 to guarantee your spot

Sponsored by Hall’s Chophouse, Coldwell Banker Commercial Atlantic, and The Charleston Edge.

RSVP Now

Don’t miss this rare opportunity to break bread with Cougar hoops leadership—and help fuel the future of Charleston basketball!

Support The Charleston Edge Collective

🔗 Donate Here: www.thecharlestonedge.com
📲 Follow us on Social Media:

• Instagram: @thecharlestonedge

• Twitter/X: @chsedgenil

Support The Edge

Support The Charleston Edge Collective

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Battle on the Bricks III is only three days away (May 2nd, TD Arena). Grab your tickets now at www.CHSBoxing.com. All proceeds go to great causes: MUSC Children’s Hospital, Warrior Surf, and the Cougar Athletic Fund. See you on Friday night!

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Meet senior designated player Kennedy Rhue, a Charleston native who transferred from Presbyterian College and has become a key player for the Cougs. This season, Kennedy has delivered impressive numbers, hitting .305 with 36 hits and 19 RBIs over 43 games.

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Charleston (27-23, 17-7 CAA) has enjoyed an outstanding year, completing four home sweeps and earning their sixth series win of the season on Sunday against Campbell. Their 17 conference victories tie the program's all-time record, originally set in 2005 during the Cougars' SoCon era.

Get to know Kennedy Rhue and her teammates and enjoy this fun, authentic peek into CofC Softball.

The Charleston Edge

The Charleston Edge Collective is dedicated to empowering CofC student-athletes through NIL opportunities, ensuring they have the resources to build their brands and succeed both on and off the playing surface.

Support The Charleston Edge Collective

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The College of Charleston men's basketball program has made its ambitions clear: aggressively retool its roster through the transfer portal with an eye toward reclaiming the CAA title and securing a return to March Madness in 2026.

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The Cougars' strategic reload began with the early commitment of Colby Duggan, a versatile forward transferring from Campbell. The 6'7" Duggan was named First Team All-CAA last season and finished as the conference's leading scorer during the regular season, immediately injecting high-level talent and scoring ability into the Cougars’ frontcourt.

Next, Charleston landed towering 7’2” center Christian Reeves, a highly-touted 4-star recruit out of Oak Hill Academy, who arrives from Clemson after starting his collegiate career at Duke. Reeves will finally have the opportunity to see significant minutes, and his impressive size and experience will undoubtedly be assets during CAA play, providing elite rim protection and interior scoring.

The Cougars further bolstered their backcourt with the addition of Jlynn Counter from Middle Tennessee State. The 6’3” guard averaged 10.6 points per game last season, starting 26 games and consistently showcasing his efficiency by shooting 43% from the field. Counter, who previously earned All-Horizon League honors at IUPUI, adds veteran leadership and a knack for timely scoring to Charleston’s perimeter.

Another important addition is Connor Hickman, a proven scoring guard transferring from Cincinnati. Hickman, who surpassed 1,000 career points last season, shot an impressive 41% from the field despite an injury-shortened stint with the Bearcats. Hickman is currently pursuing an extra year of eligibility after playing just 13 games last year due to a season-ending injury. Prior to Cincinnati, Hickman starred at Bradley, earning two All-Missouri Valley Conference honors while averaging 14.5 points per game. His seasoned scoring ability and experience could significantly elevate Charleston's offensive potency.

Charleston then looked internationally, adding dynamic young guard Martin Kalu from Braunschweig, Germany. At just 20 years old, the 6'5" point guard was remarkably efficient in Germany’s top basketball league, shooting 48% from the field. During the 2023-24 season with FC Bayern München II in the German ProB league, Kalu averaged 19.6 points, 5.4 rebounds, and 2.6 assists per game, shooting 44.3% from the field and 34.3% from three-point range. His playmaking and scoring versatility promise an exciting dimension to the Cougars' backcourt.

The latest commitment arrived from Winthrop sharpshooter Bryce Baker. The 6’5” guard was a reliable role player for Winthrop, known for his lethal accuracy from beyond the arc, where he led the Eagles in three-point shooting last season. Baker’s ability to stretch defenses and knock down critical shots provides Charleston with another critical perimeter weapon, particularly valuable in late-game situations.

Adding to the excitement, the Cougars welcome back key returning players, notably Jaxon Prunty, who will return as a redshirt freshman after starting at shooting guard last season before suffering a season-ending shoulder injury. Additionally, Djorje Curcic and Joey Scarpitti return from last year's squad, providing Charleston with valuable depth off the bench, essential for the team’s aspirations of a deep postseason run.

Charleston's numerous transfer portal signings come in response to significant roster turnover. Deywilk Tavarez, Elijah Jones, Justus Stonkus, Lazar Djokovic, AJ Smith, Evan Kilminster, and Stef Van Bussell have transferred out, and seniors Derrin Boyd, Adam Comer, Jack Miller, and Ante Brzovic will graduate. These key acquisitions, combined with impactful returning players and incoming freshman talent such as point guard Chadlyn Traylor, position Charleston as a favorite heading into the 2025-26 CAA season. Coach Chris Mack and his staff have methodically built a team poised not just to compete, but to dominate. With additional moves still possible, one thing is crystal clear: this squad has the toughness, experience, and versatility to surpass last year's 24-win campaign.

Coug nation, get ready—something truly special is brewing on George Street.

The Charleston Edge

The Charleston Edge Collective is dedicated to empowering CofC student-athletes through NIL opportunities, ensuring they have the resources to build their brands and succeed both on and off the playing surface.

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It was a big night at Patriots Point as the College of Charleston Cougars took down the No. 21-ranked Coastal Carolina Chanticleers, 4-2, completing a season sweep and energizing a fired-up home crowd.

Freshman Drew Medley set the tone early, looking sharp in his first collegiate start by pitching 2.1 scoreless innings. Senior Garrick Murray followed up with two dominant shutout innings, earning the win and evening his record at 1-1. Senior closer Davis Aiken sealed the victory with a clutch six-out save, his eighth of the year, effectively silencing Coastal’s late-game rally.

The Cougs jumped ahead in thrilling fashion thanks to Avery Neaves, who stole home during a daring first-and-third play in the second inning, igniting the Patriots Point crowd. Senior Dariyan Pendergrass stepped up big, driving in two crucial runs—first with an RBI groundout in the fifth inning and again with an RBI single in the seventh, extending Charleston’s lead to 3-0.

Coastal Carolina briefly threatened in the eighth inning with Sebastian Alexander’s two-run homer. However, the Cougars quickly responded in the bottom half, as freshman Matthew Dominianni displayed impressive discipline at the plate, drawing a key bases-loaded walk to restore the two-run advantage.

Despite being outhit 12-8, the Cougars’ defense and pitching were outstanding in crucial moments, stranding nine Coastal runners and shutting down several scoring threats with impressive fielding.

This victory is a significant statement for Charleston, marking the program’s first win over a ranked opponent since defeating No. 14 Virginia Tech at the beginning of the 2023 season. Additionally, it’s Charleston’s eighth victory over a ranked Coastal team, highlighting their history of rising to big occasions. Head coach Chad Holbrook now has seven victories against ranked opponents during his tenure, further cementing his success against top competition.

Next up, the Cougars look to carry their momentum into an important three-game series against UNCW starting Friday, April 25th, at Patriots Point. First pitch is scheduled for 6 p.m., with all games available live on FloCollege.

The Charleston Edge

The Charleston Edge Collective is dedicated to empowering CofC student-athletes through NIL opportunities, ensuring they have the resources to build their brands and succeed both on and off the playing surface.

Support The Charleston Edge Collective

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