Auburn basketball: Zep Jasper says “major players” coming to AU

Auburn basketball target Zep Jasper at the Bob Carpenter Center Thursday.Ud V Charleston
Auburn basketball target Zep Jasper at the Bob Carpenter Center Thursday.Ud V Charleston

Bruce Pearl’s 2021 Auburn basketball roster is quickly taking shape, bolstered by two high school signees and a nice pickup from the transfer portal. Zep Jasper, the College of Charleston transfer with two seasons of eligibility left, indicated in an interview over the weekend that Tigers would see major players joining the program in the next couple of months.

Jasper finished up the 2020 season averaging 15.6 points per game, leading the team in scoring and recording a 43.7% shooting average from the field. He was named second-team All-Colonial Athletic Association and earned his way onto the CAA’s all-defensive team, as well.

In an interview with Zach Schumaker, Jasper emphasized his goal to be a leader once he arrives on the Plains. With three years of college basketball under his belt at the College of Charleston, the junior expects Bruce Pearl to look at him as a leader on a young team with so many roster changeups in the offseason.

Jasper also talked about influencing the team to be locked in on both sides of the court. The guard prides himself on his defensive ability and hopes to influence the younger guys in orange and blue. “We’re looking forward to being… one of the best teams in the nation next year,” Jasper said.

When asked if he expected to be a starter or a bench player, Jasper told Shumaker that he expected to be played based on his performance during practice. He said he’s not focused on starting or coming off the bench, but his approach is to “go hard” in both practice and games to ensure he’s leading the team.

“I just want to win.” Jasper is bringing this winning mentality to the Plains, along with a strong desire to lead and be a true team player. We can’t wait to see Jasper representing Auburn basketball in the upcoming season.