May 23, 2008

BRYANT MEN'S BASKETBALL SIGNS TWO TO NATIONAL LETTERS OF INTENT

Sam LeClerc

Romaric Lasme

SMITHFIELD, R.I. -- Bryant University head men's basketball coach Max Good  announced today the signing of Sam LeClerc (Fayette, Maine / Winthrop HS) and Romaric Lasme (Gabon, Africa / Winchendon School) to National Letters of Intent to play with the Bulldogs next season, joining Don Trifari who signed with the Bulldogs earlier last fall.

LeClerc,  a 6-foot 1-inch point guard and four-year starter from Winthrop High School (Maine) helped lead the Ramblers to the Western C Championship in 2006 and the state title this past season, scoring 28 points in the championship game against a Calais team that entered the game riding a 63-game winning streak. LeClerc averaged 20.7 points per game and was named the Mountain Valley Conference's Player of the Year. A Mr. Maine basketball finalist, LeClerc surpassed 1,000 points for his career as a senior this past season.

"Sam is a throw-back point guard, a general on the floor who passes very well and is a proficient scorer," said coach Good.  "He was the No. 1 ranked high school player in Maine this season.  He does everything it takes to win, including taking charges, getting on the floor after loose balls and setting up teammates. He's a winner."

LeClerc had a successful AAU season where he led MBR to a run through the national tournament field as they finished as the 11th-best team in the country.

Lasme is a 6-foot-7-inch forward from the Winchendon School in Winchendon, Massachusetts. He was a key component last year as the team went to the NEPSAC finals. Lasme is the younger brother of former UMass star Stephane Lasme, who went on to play in the NBA.  Listed among the Top-10 prep players in Massachusetts, Lasme was a McDonald's All-American nominee after averaging 13.0 points per game plus 8.9 rebounds and 6.1 blocks per game.

"Lasme is an terrific shot blocker and should provide us with an immediate presence inside," added Good. "He was recruited by several high major programs and is listed among the top-30 power forwards in the nation by ESPN High School Basketball."