Monroe, a 6-6 forward, played the last two seasons at Northern Oklahoma College in Enid, Okla. for coach Greg Shamburg. Monroe averaged eight points and seven rebounds a game last season for the Jets. He was a two year starter and was the team's captain this past year. He was also named Academic Athlete of the Year.

A native of Little Rock, Ark., Monroe prepped at North Little Rock High school, starting three years at the varsity level. He was an All-State selection his senior year, as well as being named All-Metro and Conference MVP. In his senior year, Monroe averaged 19 points, 16 rebounds, eight assists and four blocks per game. He recorded a school record 15 triple doubles that season. He was a McDonald's All-American finalist, as well as a Wendy's High School Heisman nominee.

Monroe helped lead the Wildcats to three appearances in the state tournament, as well as a semi-final appearance his sophomore season and a runner-up finish his junior year.

Monroe's grandfather was a four-sport athlete at the University of Missouri, while two of his uncles played college football.