By Ron P. Coderre

The ink on the news that Putnam High School basketball player Dan Porcic was headed to Putnam Science Academy has hardly dried and coach Tom Espinosa recently announced that another local standout will become a Mustang in September 2016.

Liam Jacobs, who was the top rebounder and point producer for coach Bob Arremony’s Plainfield Panthers, has indicated that he’ll attended Putnam Science Academy as a post graduate student.  The 6-foot, 5-inch and 185-pound big man averaged 15.9 points per game for Plainfield, leading the team to the 2nd Round of the CIAC Class M Tournament.  An accurate long-range shooter, Jacobs had 29-three pointers as a senior.  He also led the Panthers in rebounding.

He was named to the All-Eastern Connecticut Conference Medium Division First Team and was an All-Norwich Bulletin selection.  The Connecticut High School Coaches Association named him to the All State Class M 2nd Team.

As a junior at Plainfield, Jacobs earned All-ECC Medium Honorable Mention.  His basketball star blossomed that year when he averaged 12.5 points per game.

“We feel Liam is a good fit for our program as we institute a varsity team.  He’ll have an opportunity to get plenty of court time, while continuing to work on his academics.  His skill level is such that he will most likely see action on both the varsity and post graduate teams,” said coach Espinosa.

The 18-year-old Jacobs is scheduled to graduate from Plainfield High School in June.  His basketball goal is to improve his rebounding, foot speed and defensive skills, giving him an opportunity to play at the highest college level possible.  His college plans include majoring in business with a goal of securing a position in a business career in the basketball area. 

“It’s our belief that the extra year as a post grad in our competitive program will help him attain his college and career goals,” added Espinosa.