On the night Rhode Island begins what could be a big 2014-15 season, the team received news that 6-foot-10 forward Jordan Hare has left the program again.
This was first reported by Bill Koch of the Providence Journal on Friday evening.
Last October, Hare left the Rams for personal reasons following a freshman season where he posted averages of 5.2 points, 4.0 rebounds and 1.8 blocks per game during the 2012-13 season. He was ruled eligible to play this season by the NCAA two months ago.
Rhode Island finished 14-18 (5-11 Atlantic 10) last season, but in the third year of the Danny Hurley era, the Rams could make a jump into the top 5 of the conference. Rhode Island will have a talented perimeter led by A10 Co-Rookie of the Year, E.C. Matthews. Even without Hare, URI will have a trio of big men to rely on in front court. Gilvydas Biruta recorded six double-doubles last season, his first with the team while sophomore Hassan Martin will provide a defensive presence. Earl Watson, a JuCo transfer, adds another body on the interior.
Rhode Island defeated Division II Pace on Friday night, 95-65. The Rams have home contest on Sunday against UMass Lowell.