The Rams added a major piece to their roster this week, with the signing of Canadian Jr. National PG Jordan Henry to the program.
CUSN caught up with Henry for a quick email Q&A on how the commitment came to be, and what he expects to bring to the program next season.
MR: First off, what drove your decision to stay home and play for Ryerson next season when you had offers from Binghamton, Canisius and a Power 5 school in Virginia Tech?
JH: Factors that drove my decision to stay home were being able to play in front of my family and friends while still being able to develop and get the exposure I would at a Division 1 school. Also playing for a great coach like Roy gives a huge chance to develop my game over the next couple of years.
MR: Give me a couple of details on your recruiting process by Coach Rana, when did he first reach out? Did playing for him on Team Canada make an impact?
JH: Coach Roy and I first discussed me staying home and coming to Ryerson last summer during team Canada, I wanted to take a year but I was always open to being the one to change the perception about Canadian university basketball and helping it grow. Playing for Team Canada helped me understand what type of coach he was and how he would be able to develop me.
MR: You finished 3rd in Ontario again this season, what was your final season like with Pine Ridge and how will that help you at the next level?
JH: My final season for Pine Ridge didn’t end up finishing the way I expected but I had a chance to further develop my leadership skills playing with a lot of young, talented players.
MR: How has playing in both the U19 World’s in 2015 and the U18 FIBA Americas last summer against guys who were major D1 prospects this year and future pros helped grow your game?
JH: Playing in the past two international competitions has helped me understand what I need to work on to eventually play at the highest level. It has also helped me understand the game more and develop a brotherhood with my fellow teammates and the whole Canada Basketball organization.
MR: Finally, joining Ryerson for next season after their run to the national title game, what are you looking to bring to the team?
JH: I’m looking to add another playmaker and my big game experience to the team. My main goal next year is to end Carleton’s winning streak and bring a title back home.
