A historic milestone awaits the Fordham Rams as they commemorate a century of basketball tradition at Rose Hill Gymnasium. On Wednesday evening, the venue will host its 100th anniversary celebration with a match against the University of Massachusetts Minutemen, tipping off at 7 p.m. The event promises to be an evening filled with nostalgia and excitement, honoring the legacy of this iconic facility.
The game will be broadcast live on ESPN+ and radio station 90.7 WFUV, ensuring fans can follow the action from anywhere. Attendees will receive commemorative items, including a maroon "Rose Hill 100" t-shirt, and the first 100 spectators will get a voucher for a limited-edition crewneck sweatshirt. After the game, all attendees will take home a special Coca-Cola bottle adorned with the "Rose Hill 100" logo, making it a memorable night for everyone involved.
Fordham enters this significant matchup after a challenging road trip, where they faced Virginia Commonwealth University (VCU) and Davidson College. Despite the losses, standout performances by players like Japhet Medor and Jackie Johnson III highlight the team's resilience. Medor averaged nearly 20 points per game during the road swing, showcasing his efficiency and leadership. Johnson III responded strongly after a subpar performance, scoring 20 points in their most recent game, demonstrating his ability to bounce back.
UMass arrives with a record of 6-11, having recently secured a notable victory over Dayton. Key contributors such as Rahsool Diggins and Jaylen Curry have been instrumental in their success. Diggins leads the team in scoring, while Curry excels in both scoring and assists, positioning UMass as a formidable opponent.
The rivalry between Fordham and UMass spans decades, with 53 previous encounters dating back to 1967. This meeting holds particular significance as it marks the final Atlantic 10 regular season clash between the two teams, given UMass's transition to the Mid-American Conference next year. The centennial celebration not only honors the past but also looks forward to future triumphs, embodying the spirit of perseverance and excellence that defines college athletics.