Ahmed Hamdy has asked for and will be granted a release from VCU to explore other options for his senior season, though he hasn't ruled out returning for the Rams.
Hamdy was granted an additional year of eligibility from the NCAA toward the end of the 2016-2017 season. As a graduating senior, he would be eligible to play immediately (as a graduate student) at another school should he decide to transfer.
Hamdy played a significant role for the Rams last season, coming off the bench to average 5.9 ppg and 3.8 rpg. At 6'9, 230 lbs, his size helped VCU throughout the season, taking pressure off of other bigs Mo Alie-Cox and Justin Tillman, and constantly causing trouble for University of Richmond senior T.J. Cline (A-10 POY).
With senior big Mo Alie-Cox graduating, the Rams will need size on the roster. Remaining bigs on the roster are rising senior Justin Tillman (6"7, 215 lbs) as well as two incoming freshmen Marcus Santos-Silva (who recently announced he's sticking to his commitment to VCU) and Mayan Kiir (who has yet to indicate anything about staying or leaving).
Since the hiring of new Head Coach Mike Rhoades, Hamdy is the first and only Ram to ask for release. Ram fans are hoping to build a culture of loyalty and commitment, after a short stint of 2 years with former head coach Will Wade.
Hamdy was granted an additional year of eligibility from the NCAA toward the end of the 2016-2017 season. As a graduating senior, he would be eligible to play immediately (as a graduate student) at another school should he decide to transfer.
Hamdy played a significant role for the Rams last season, coming off the bench to average 5.9 ppg and 3.8 rpg. At 6'9, 230 lbs, his size helped VCU throughout the season, taking pressure off of other bigs Mo Alie-Cox and Justin Tillman, and constantly causing trouble for University of Richmond senior T.J. Cline (A-10 POY).
With senior big Mo Alie-Cox graduating, the Rams will need size on the roster. Remaining bigs on the roster are rising senior Justin Tillman (6"7, 215 lbs) as well as two incoming freshmen Marcus Santos-Silva (who recently announced he's sticking to his commitment to VCU) and Mayan Kiir (who has yet to indicate anything about staying or leaving).
Since the hiring of new Head Coach Mike Rhoades, Hamdy is the first and only Ram to ask for release. Ram fans are hoping to build a culture of loyalty and commitment, after a short stint of 2 years with former head coach Will Wade.
