Radford Inks Ricks In Late Signing Period

RADFORD, Va. -- Radford University Men’s Basketball coach Byron Samuels announced his second signing of the late signing period today, inking Duane Ricks to a National Letter of Intent.

A senior at Norfolk Collegiate School in Norfolk, Va., Ricks will add another post player to Samuels’ team. The 6-9, 210 pound center averaged 11.6 points, 10.3 rebounds and 5.1 blocks per game. He also tallied two games with triple-doubles as a senior.

“Duane Ricks is and outstanding signee for our program. He brings immediate help inside,” said Samuels. “At 6-9 Duane is long, athletic and very skilled. He has the uncanny ability to score inside and outside.”

Samuels is looking for defensive help from Ricks as well, who recorded four games with 10 blocks during his senior season.

“Defensively Duane is very crafty at using his length and athleticism to change or block shots,” Samuels said. “We are truly excited about welcoming Duane and his family to Radford and look forward to his future with us.”

Ricks chose Radford over Campbell and UMBC. He will join RU this fall as a freshman with four years of eligibility. Ricks is the fourth committed recruit the Highlanders have in place. He joins Branden Smith, Josh Fox and Colby Trent, who were all signed early this year.

Radford finished the 2003-04 season 12-16 overall, 7-9 in Conference play.