Rhode Island Basketball: 2019-20 season review for the Rams

With Two Key Pieces Leaving, What Does Year 3 for Coach David Cox Look Like as He Continues To Build Upon The Upward Trend Established in 2019-20?

Jeff Dowtin and Cyril Langevine have seen the end of their college careers in a very unceremonious way with Covid-19 claiming what was left of their playing days.

At this point, Rhode Island will return six scholarship players: Fatts Russell, Tyrese Martin, Jermaine Harris, Mekhi Long, Jacob Toppin, and Antwan Walker.  Three starters and three key rotation players; this was one of the benefits of having such a short bench as players were able to gain valuable experience and adjust to heavier workloads.

Joining the returners will be incoming Freshman Elijah Wood and Ishmael Leggett.  Both consensus 3-star recruits, these guards should fill a large void left by the departing Dowtin.

A few interesting threads to keep track of will be the transfer market and if the Rams will be able to make any moves within it.  Again, even with the Freshman coming in, there will be spots open and David Cox would love to add extra depth.

Will 2020-21 play out like this year?  It’s a lot to ask quite frankly.  With consistent production needed from Tyrese Martin and the need for Jermaine Harris to find his game will be imperative as will the progression of Long and Toppin.

Rhode Island fans can expect Fatts Russell to do his due diligence and declare for the NBA Draft without an agent to see what the water feels like, but the star guard should most likely be back for one more run in Kingston.