By Ron P. Coderre

Kealen Ives, a product of Classical High School in Providence, was the first recruit that Putnam Science Academy basketball coach Tom Espinosa lured to the Maple Street campus for the upcoming 2014-2015 season.  

The press clippings on Ives were most complimentary and it’s obvious that he’s living up to the predictions as Espinosa recently confirmed that the versatile guard has made a verbal commitment to play at Rider University in Lawrenceville, N.J.  The Broncs, who are coached by second-year head mentor Kevin Baggett, posted 19 wins last season and finished second in the Metro Atlantic Athletic Conference.

“Kealen has been working hard in the preseason, following an exhaustive AAU schedule this past summer.  He’s a dedicated young man with some very positive goals.  Committing to Rider early will allow him to concentrate on his studies and basketball this season without any outside interference,” said Espinosa.

Ives will have an opportunity to showcase his skills this season as Espinosa has lined up a rigorous schedule of approximately 40 games.  The Mustangs, who last season worked their way to the National Prep Championships, posting a 29-5 record, are scheduled to play some of the best teams in not only New England but also up and down the East coast.

In looking at the upcoming season, Espinosa expects Ives to be his floor general, although the post-graduate is also capable of filling the hoop with basketballs.  His versatility on offense and his tenacity on defense is the spark that Espinosa feels will inspire this year’s team, as he and the Mustangs strive for a return appearance in the National Prep School Championships.

Rider University has some faces that are familiar to the local basketball community.  Anthony Durham, who last season was a key operative on the Putnam Science Academy team is a freshman at Rider, as is 6-foot, 9-inch Kenny Grant who starred at Hyde- Woodstock last season.  One of the assistant coaches under coach Baggett is former UConn All American and National Basketball Association great Donyell Marshall.

The commitment by Ives is the third player from Putnam Science Academy who will move on to the college ranks next season.  Twin brothers Aaron and Andrew Robinson earlier committed to Quinnipiac University, also a member of the MAAC.  They’ll join former PSA standout big man Chaise Daniels, who is currently a freshman on the Hamden campus.

“Rider is a great selection by Kealen, where he can continue his basketball and academic path.  He should fit in well with coach Baggett’s plan.  The school’s location in the New York City vicinity will offer an opportunity for people to witness his hoop skills,” said Espinosa.

Putnam Science Academy opens its 2014-2015 season on Saturday, November 15 at Tilton Academy in New Hampshire.  The Mustangs initial home game is Monday, November 17 when they entertain Coastal Academy Gray.