SIU men’s basketball received welcome news on Monday morning when senior forward Jarrett Hensley announced his intention to return to SIU.

Dawgsssss🙏🏼🫶🏼 pic.twitter.com/Uc1HyS0ReH

— Jarrett Hensley (@_jarretthensley) April 29, 2024

Hensley was a part of the March 17 slew of announcements that saw SIU’s entire room of forwards and centers enter the portal one after another.

He took the floor later than most SIU players this past year as he waited for a waiver from the NCAA after transferring to Southern Illinois.  On December 16, Hensley played his first game for the Salukis at Wichita State after a temporary restraining order was placed against the NCAA, allowing all transfers waiting for word on if they would be allowed to play this past season or have to sit out the season to begin playing.  Later, the NCAA said the time played would not affect future eligibility.

Hensley averaged 5.4 points, 2.5 rebounds, and shot 48.4% from the field and 37% from beyond the arc in 23 games for the Salukis.

With the return of Hensley, the Salukis have a total of six players committed to the 2024-25 season:

 

Senior forward Hensley, sophomore guard Trey Miller, freshman guard Sheridan Sharp, redshirt guard Drew Steffe, incoming freshman center Jaheem Webber, and incoming freshman forward Rolyns Aligbe.