Fordham’s Next Step Is Here
A revamped backcourt and returning frontcourt give the Rams real A-10 upside
By: Matt Colvin
Mike Magpayo and his Fordham staff attacked the transfer portal aggressively heading into year two, and the program appears to be trending upward. After finishing 17–15 overall and 8–10 in Atlantic 10 play, the Rams look poised to take a step forward, assembling a roster capable of competing in the top half of the league this coming season.
It starts with the impact they made in the portal. Lateef Patrick was a standout guard for Stephen F. Austin last season, averaging 15.2 points and 3.1 rebounds while appearing in all 34 games for the Lumberjacks. He scored 20 or more points eight times, including a career-high 29 against New Orleans in January. Patrick also provides perimeter shooting, knocking down over two three-pointers per game at a 34 percent clip. Amir Lindsey is another strong addition in the backcourt.
Despite his 5-foot-11 frame, Lindsey can score at all three levels thanks to his athleticism. He averaged nearly 18 points and five assists per game at Albany last season while shooting close to 45 percent from the field. With two years of eligibility remaining, Lindsey also brings defensive intensity, averaging 1.2 steals per game. Fordham also added depth with John Laboy from Miami (FL), who appeared in six games for the Hurricanes last season.
Magpayo also retained several of his top contributors, underscoring his program-building ability and the trust he has established within the roster. Rikus Schulte, one of the most efficient big men in the conference last season, announced his return to Rose Hill. In 32 games, Schulte averaged nearly 11 points and nine rebounds per game, recording nine double-doubles, including a 20-point, 11-rebound performance against La Salle on March 4. Akira Jacobs is another key returner. Alongside Schulte in the frontcourt, Jacobs averaged 7.2 points and 4.8 rebounds per game. He also knocked down a career-high 44 three-pointers, and his wiry 6-foot-10 frame creates matchup problems for opposing defenses.
Fordham has a real opportunity to build something sustainable. With both starting big men returning and the addition of two impactful guards via the transfer portal, the Rams have the pieces to push into the top half of the Atlantic 10 standings. Magpayo has found success at every stop in his coaching career, and he will look to continue that trajectory with this group in the upcoming season.