James graduates high school early, enrolls at Iona

STAFF REPORT

BSN

NEW ROCHELLE, N.Y. — Iona College men's basketball head coach Rick Pitino announced Tuesday, Jan. 12, that Trey James graduated early from Martin County High School and was joining the IC program for the 2020-21 season.

James signed a National Letter of Intent in mid-November to play for the Gaels.

The athletic James is a 6-10, 240-pound forward. Last season, James averaged 14.6 points and 11.1 rebounds per game and broke the state's career blocks record while leading Martin County High School to its first 15th Region title since 1983. A four-star recruit on ESPN.com, James originally committed to Wake Forest prior to a coaching change. James drew interest after reopening his recruiting from Iowa, Elon and Appalachian State.

"Trey joining us early accomplishes several things," said Pitino. "Most importantly, we can help develop our 6-10, 240-pound center and give him a head start in everything, including academics. With our current injury situation, Trey will also provide depth in our thin front court while he learns our system."

Additionally, Iona junior Robert Brown has elected to medically withdraw for the Spring 2021 semester. He will return to the program this summer and will have two years of eligibility remaining.

"Following his successful surgery over the holiday break, Rob has decided to go home and go through rehabilitation in Dallas," added Pitino. "Rob is a transfer and is ahead academically. We look forward to his return for summer classes."