Published: Febrary 14, 2008

The middle of January brought an unexpected surprise to the streaky Fordham men’s basketball team. Head coach Dereck Whittenburg announced the transfer of Jacob Green, FCRH ’10, to Fordham University from West Virginia University in front of an audience at the Rose Hill Gym on Jan. 16.

Because of league rules, Green, being a transfer student, will be unable to don the maroon and white Fordham jersey until next Spring. The sophomore forward will provide extra help down low—something the Rams will need next season after the departure of two key seniors: guard Marcus Stout, FCRH ’08, and forward Bryant Dunston, FCRH ’08.

Green, who hails from Clinton, Md., averaged under a point a game at West Virginia and was not much of a factor in his team’s games. The Rams, however, are happy to have him.

“He’s considered a smart player, so I’m happy he’ll be here after I leave,” Dunston said. “I hear he’s athletic, too. That always helps.”

Although he did not make much of an impact at West Virginia, Green believes the way the Rams play will be a more suitable style for him. One of his reasons for transferring was because he wanted to make more of a contribution. Averaging just two rebounds a game was not good enough for the 6’9”, 220-pound Green, who would love to make a better start in the Bronx.

“I never got off on the right foot (at West Virginia University),” Green said of his former team. “The Rams will be a fresh start for me to do something great.”

“It’s all about chemistry,” said assistant head coach Jared Grasso. “We’ll have to see how he fits with our ball club.”

Green will have plenty of time to mesh with the team, as he will be limited to practice until Spring 2009 when this most patient Ram will make his debut.