SIUE Men's Basketball Adds Guard To Team

"With the addition of Zane to our team we have continued to build on the toughness and 'Find A Way' mentality our program is about," Barone said. "Zane is a player who will bring dynamic outside shooting along with the ability to score off the dribble."

The five-foot, 11-inch, 165-pound guard joins the Cougars from Link Year Prep in Branson, Mo. He was an Arkansas 5A All-State selection in 2019 and 2020. He also landed on the Arkansas Basketball Coaches Association Top Five. Butler lead Green County Tech in scoring with 20 points per game as a junior and senior.

"I'm thrilled to have the opportunity to become a part of the SIUE men's basketball program," Butler said. "The foundation which is being built and the effort being put into the program is exciting. From the time I've picked up a basketball, I've had the dream of playing Division I basketball and playing in the NCAA Tournament."

Butler was the Arkansas State Tournament leading scorer, a two-time 5A east leading scorer, an All State-tournament team selection, a two-time All-State pick, a two-time Greene county Player of the Year and a two-time All-Conference selection. The Jonesboro Sun named him as a 'Best Under the Sun' pick.

"SIUE is getting a winner on and off the court in Zane," Greene County Tech Head Coach Jeff Guiot said. "He is one of the biggest competitors I've ever coached. I would go to war with him every day of the week. SIUE is getting a steal with Zane. The Cougar fans will absolutely love watching him play."

"I wanted to go to a place where I was truly wanted," Butler added. "I wanted to go somewhere the players and staff have the same goals and determination. That is why I have chosen SIUE. Coach Barone, and his staff, have invested a lot of time and effort into recruiting me. They have also made it obvious that they will do their all to help me become a better basketball player and a better person. That is why SIUE already feels like home. I cannot wait to help propel this program, school, and fan base toward our goals. Special things are coming."

Butler is the fourth player to come to SIUE from Link Year.

Butler joins freshman Desmond Polk and sophomores Lamar and Shamar Wright who also played at Link Year Prep, which is coached by Adam Donyes.
"Zane Butler is a relentless worker, that refuses to cut corners in any area of life," Donyes said. "He shoots the three at a really high level and is a tenacious defender. He brings legit toughness on both ends of the floor."

"Zane's basketball IQ will be a great addition to our program," Barone added. "He has a knack to impact the game through his intangibles as well as his scoring ability.  We are looking forward to having Zane join our team next season."