Ross Wilson Signs To Rice University

Former England Under-18 Ross Wilson (1993 born) has signed a Letter of Intent to attend NCAA Division 1 school Rice University next season.

The athletic 6’7″ forward, who has been developed through the Newcastle Eagles programme under the guidance of Marc Steutel and Fab Flournoy, spent this season playing for Northumbria Division 2 side, whilst also making his BBL debut with the Eagles. However, more recently he has been sidelined with a knee injury.

Talking to Hoopsfix on his decision to attend Rice and his injury rehab he said:

“I chose Rice as it has a great reputation academically but also it gives me the opportunity to play D1 basketball within a competitive schedule.

“I’m hoping to be healthy in the next few weeks and although I’m missing some valuable playing time at BBL and important games for Northumbria, I’ve made being healthy for when I leave my priority.”

Wilson added he has been working with strength and conditioning coach Chris Bunten to focus on getting stronger in preparation for the jump to Division 1 basketball whilst also trying to improve his perimeter shooting.

Talking to the Chronicle about losing one of their rising young stars, Newcastle Eagles owner Paul Blake said:

“He has a four-year scholarship and goes with our full blessing. The link was made via (Newcastle Eagles player) Paul Gause, believe it or not.

“It is a fantastic opportunity and although we’d obviously like to keep a player of his ability and calibre, Ross has worked very hard to get this chance.”

Wilson averaged 5.1 points and 3.9 rebounds per game for England at the 2011 U18 Division B European Championships in Bulgaria, with his best performance coming against Belgium where he had 11 points and 13 rebounds on 5/7 shooting in 22 minutes.

Hoopsfix wants to wish Ross all the best with his college career – we will be following!