When De’monte Nelson signed with the Tri-City Tide on December 12, 2024, many wondered what this rookie guard from Kenosha, Wisconsin, would bring to the team. Arriving without much fanfare or headlines, Nelson quickly revealed a quiet confidence and a strong work ethic that set him apart. By the end of the season, he had established himself as one of the most consistent and respected players on the roster, earning admiration from fans, coaches, and teammates alike.

In his first year in The Basketball League, Nelson averaged 15.9 points per game while adapting to various roles within a deep and evolving lineup. More importantly, he played with intensity, unselfishness, and maturity well beyond his years.

From Kenosha to the Coast

De’monte Nelson’s basketball journey began at Bradford High School in Wisconsin, where he became one of the most prolific scorers in school history. In his senior year, he averaged 29.6 points and 5.5 assists per game, earning the distinction of being the program’s all-time leading scorer. His versatile scoring ability and natural feel for the game made him a standout in Wisconsin’s high school basketball scene.

Nelson then advanced to the junior college level, starting at Pensacola State College where he averaged 11.3 points per game. He proved he could compete at a higher level before transferring to Wallace State, where he continued to refine his skills and gain valuable experience. His development at the junior college level prepared him well for the jump to professional basketball.

When the Tri-City Tide came calling ahead of their inaugural season, Nelson did not hesitate. His scoring, speed, and basketball intelligence quickly became assets for the team.

Early Season First Impressions

The start of Nelson’s rookie season was far from easy. When the Tri-City Tide began a challenging three-game road trip to Newfoundland early in the season, De’monte was still an unproven rookie guard fighting to prove that he belonged. At just 5’10”, he was often overlooked in a league where physicality tends to dictate opportunity, especially for smaller guards.

During training camp, Nelson impressed coaches with his energy and fearlessness, but securing a spot on the final roster was anything but guaranteed. He was one of the last players added to the team, a testament to his perseverance and grit. Despite limited playing time early on, including 9 points in just 20 minutes on opening night against the Halifax Hoopers, Nelson showed determination. It was clear he was still adjusting to the speed, complexity, and physicality of the professional game, but he never lost focus.

Even with a smaller role at the beginning, Nelson’s presence was felt in the locker room. He stayed vocal, worked tirelessly in practice, and brought positive energy every day proving his value beyond the stat sheet.

Coach Spon’s old-school approach was a challenge that Nelson embraced, seeing it as an opportunity rather than an obstacle. Paired at times with the defensive anchor KV Myricks, Nelson used his speed and basketball IQ to become an effective transition player, attacking defenses before they could even set up.

Adjusting Roles and Finding His Identity

Midway through the season, the roster saw new veteran additions in D’evon Andrews and James Towns II. Towns took on the starting point guard role, which might have limited Nelson’s growth, but instead, Nelson adapted seamlessly becoming a crucial spark off the bench as a reliable floor-spacer who could attack closeouts and knock down shots when it mattered most.

Despite his smaller stature, Nelson matched any opponent in intensity and effort. He finished the season shooting an impressive 50.6% from three-point range (3rd best in the entire TBL), 49.3% FG and 88.5% from the FT line while applying relentless pressure on both ends of the court. His ability to space the floor, move without the ball, and run the offense which made him an indispensable part of the Tide’s second unit.

Notable Performances

Nelson produced several memorable performances that highlighted his growth and potential during the season. Three of his best games include:

• 28 Points, 3 Assists and 2 Rebounds on 81.8% from the field on March 28th at home against the Tri-State Admirals.
  

   

• 30 Points, 2 Assist and 3 Rebounds on 85.7% from three on April 27th at home against the Albany Patroons.
  

   

• 23 Points, 6 Assists and 6 Rebounds on 71.4% from three on March 23rd at home against the Halifax Hoopers.
  

   

Across the season, Nelson averaged strong three-point shooting with several games above 60% from deep, including multiple games over 72% from beyond the arc.

His ability to score efficiently while managing 2.9 APG and playing solid defense helped the Tide remain competitive throughout the season.

Beyond the Box Score

Beyond his on-court production, Nelson quickly became a fan favourite in Moncton. He engaged with supporters, brought energy to every home game, and carried himself with a level of professionalism that exceeded expectations for a first-year player. In a city getting its first taste of professional basketball in years, Nelson quickly became one of the most recognizable and respected faces on the team.

He was voted as the team’s “Fan Favourite of the Year”, an award that reflected not only his game but the way he made others feel. He inspired younger players around the community by showing that size does not determine success, it’s effort, attitude, and hard-work.

A Bright Future Ahead

Looking forward, De’monte Nelson possesses all the tools to continue advancing his career. He’s a proven scorer with the ability to adapt in different roles. With a full season of professional experience behind him, his growth trajectory is promising. Whether starting or coming off the bench, he brings effort, intelligence, and competitive fire to every possession.

As the Tri-City Tide work to build their culture and identity, Nelson will undoubtedly be a key part of that foundation. He’s established himself as a professional during his rookie season and showed flashes of something more, the potential to become a star. Most importantly, he’s doing it the right way.