A.J. Staton-McCray has established himself as a versatile and high-impact guard in collegiate basketball, transitioning through three different programs to find his rhythm in the Big East. Currently playing for Seton Hall University as a graduate student, Staton-McCray brings a blend of defensive tenacity and scoring efficiency that has made him a focal point for the Pirates.

For the 2024-25 season at Seton Hall, A.J. Staton-McCray is averaging 11.8 points, 3.2 rebounds, 1.4 assists, and 1.5 steals per game. He has become a primary option in the Pirates' rotation, playing approximately 27.6 minutes per contest and shooting nearly 40% from the field.

Current Season Performance at Seton Hall University

Staton-McCray’s arrival at Seton Hall has been marked by several breakout performances, most notably during the Maui Invitational where he earned Big East Weekly Honors. His ability to elevate his game against ranked opponents has been a defining characteristic of his graduate season.

2024-25 Statistical Averages

The following table represents his current production levels as he leads the Pirates through a challenging Big East schedule:

Category Season Average (2024-25)
Points Per Game (PPG) 11.8
Rebounds Per Game (RPG) 3.2
Assists Per Game (APG) 1.4
Steals Per Game (SPG) 1.5
Blocks Per Game (BPG) 0.6
Field Goal % (FG%) 39.8%
Free Throw % (FT%) 88.9%
Minutes Per Game (MPG) 27.6

High-Impact Game Logs

In late 2024, Staton-McCray put the Big East on notice with a series of efficient scoring outings. During a three-game stretch at the Maui Invitational, he averaged 19.7 points and 2.7 steals. His standout performance came against No. 23 NC State, where he dropped a game-high 22 points on 7-of-11 shooting, while also securing 8 rebounds. This game highlighted his "three-and-D" potential, as he connected on multiple shots from behind the arc while primary defending the opponent's best perimeter scorer.

His defensive metrics remain some of the best on the team. With a steal rate that consistently ranks near the top of the conference, he disrupts passing lanes and initiates fast-break opportunities. Against USC, he recorded 4 steals in a high-intensity matchup, demonstrating his lateral quickness and anticipation.

The Miami Hurricanes Chapter (2024)

Prior to joining Seton Hall, Staton-McCray spent a season with the Miami Hurricanes in the ACC. While his scoring volume was lower due to a crowded backcourt, his efficiency and defensive contributions remained vital.

2024 Miami Statistical Profile

During his tenure in Coral Gables, Staton-McCray appeared in all 31 games, making 17 starts. His role was primarily that of a defensive stopper and secondary creator.

  • Scoring: 7.3 PPG
  • Rebounding: 2.4 RPG
  • Steals: 1.1 SPG
  • Three-Point Shooting: 32.3%
  • Free Throw Shooting: 82.9%

A notable highlight from his time at Miami was a season-high 22-point performance against Louisville, proving that he could provide explosive scoring when the offensive scheme allowed. He also showed flashes of rim protection unusual for a 6'5" guard, tallying a career-high 4 blocks in a single game against Duke.

Foundations at Samford University

The bedrock of Staton-McCray’s statistical profile was built at Samford University, where he spent four years (including a redshirt season). At Samford, he was a perennial standout in the Southern Conference (SoCon), known for his all-around utility.

Year-by-Year Growth at Samford

Staton-McCray’s progression at Samford shows a steady climb in basketball IQ and physical development.

Freshman Season (2020-21)

As a freshman, he made an immediate impact, earning SoCon All-Freshman Team honors. He averaged 10.0 points and 4.5 rebounds, showcasing a fearless approach to attacking the rim. He finished the season ranked second in the conference in steals per game (1.7), signaling the start of his reputation as a defensive menace.

Redshirt Sophomore Season (2022-23)

After missing most of the 2021-22 season due to injury, he returned to average 8.2 points and 4.1 rebounds. His efficiency in conference play was particularly impressive, where he shot 50% from the floor and led the SoCon in steals (1.8 per game).

Redshirt Junior Season (2023-24)

His final year at Samford was his most productive. He led the Bulldogs to a SoCon Tournament title and an NCAA Tournament appearance.

  • Points: 11.5 PPG
  • Rebounds: 4.5 RPG
  • 3PT%: 41.3% (A significant jump from previous years)
  • Accolades: SoCon All-Defensive Team, All-SoCon Third Team.

In the NCAA Tournament against Kansas, Staton-McCray recorded 7 points and 4 assists, helping Samford nearly pull off a massive upset against the Jayhawks.

Analytical Breakdown of Playing Style

To understand A.J. Staton-McCray's stats, one must look at the underlying metrics that define his efficiency on the court.

Shooting Efficiency and Shot Selection

Throughout his career, Staton-McCray has evolved from a slash-first guard to a reliable perimeter threat. His free-throw percentage has remained elite, often hovering between 82% and 89%, which indicates strong shooting mechanics. His True Shooting Percentage (TS%) has seen a steady rise as he has learned to limit low-efficiency mid-range jumpers in favor of corner threes and transition layups.

Defensive Impact Metrics

Staton-McCray is often assigned the "lockdown" role. His wingspan and 6'5" frame allow him to guard positions 1 through 3 effectively. His defensive win shares have been a major contributor to his teams' successes, particularly at Samford and now at Seton Hall. His ability to maintain a steal rate above 1.5 per game while keeping his foul rate relatively low (averaging about 2.2 fouls per game) demonstrates high-level defensive discipline.

Physical Profile

  • Height: 6'5"
  • Weight: 200 lbs
  • Position: Guard
  • Hometown: Delray Beach, Florida
  • High School: West Oaks Academy

Career Summary and Accolades

Staton-McCray's journey through college basketball is reflected in a trophy case that emphasizes his two-way play:

  1. Big East Weekly Honor (2024-25): Recognized for elite performance at the Maui Invitational.
  2. SoCon All-Defensive Team (2023-24): Solidified his status as one of the best perimeter defenders in mid-major basketball.
  3. SoCon All-Freshman Team (2020-21): Early recognition of his potential.
  4. State Championship (High School): Won a Florida state title with Blanche Ely High School.

Summary of A.J. Staton-McCray's Career Statistics

A.J. Staton-McCray’s career is a testament to resilience and adaptation. From his early days as a defensive specialist at Samford to becoming a versatile scoring threat in the Big East with Seton Hall, his statistical trajectory is upward. His current averages of 11.8 PPG and 1.5 SPG at Seton Hall suggest he will be a critical factor in the Pirates' pursuit of a post-season berth in 2025. Fans and analysts alike value him not just for the raw numbers, but for the "winning plays"—the deflections, the hustle rebounds, and the clutch free throws—that often don't show up in a standard box score but are reflected in his consistently positive plus-minus ratings.

FAQ

What are A.J. Staton-McCray's current stats at Seton Hall?

As of the 2024-25 season, he is averaging 11.8 points, 3.2 rebounds, and 1.5 steals per game.

Which college did A.J. Staton-McCray play for before Seton Hall?

He played for the University of Miami (FL) during the 2024 season and Samford University from 2020 to 2024.

What is A.J. Staton-McCray's height and weight?

He is 6'5" tall and weighs approximately 200 lbs.

Has A.J. Staton-McCray won any awards?

Yes, he has been named to the SoCon All-Defensive Team, the SoCon All-Freshman Team, and has received Big East Weekly Honors.

What is A.J. Staton-McCray's career high in scoring?

His career high is 29 points, which he achieved while playing for Samford against Chattanooga in 2024.