Men’s Basketball Signs Three Standouts for 2007-08

6/14/07 -- Long Island University men’s basketball coach Jim Ferry has announced the signing of Ronald Manigault, Ike Udanoh and Nehemiah Weicks to National Letters of Intent to join the program in the 2007-08 campaign. The three signees join David Hicks, who signed with the Blackbirds in the fall of 2007.

“We brought in a very solid class,” Ferry said. “We think these signees, along with David Hicks, will help fill the void of our outgoing seniors by bringing a lot of athleticism and versatility to our lineup.”

Manigault is a New York City native who played at City College of San Francisco and will have two years of eligibility remaining. At 6-foot-4, Manigault has the versatility to play any position on the floor from point guard to forward. Manigault is a cousin of the legendary basketball player, Earl Manigault.

“Ron is a local kid and we’re extremely excited to have him join the program,” Ferry said. “He will add versatility and toughness to our lineup.”

Udanoh is a 6-7 forward from Detroit who played at Warren Woods-Tower High School. An extremely athletic forward, Udanoh is aggressive at both ends of the floor and should solidify LIU’s frontcourt.

“Ike will be able to play either forward position for us,” Ferry said. “He is very quick and aggressive on the boards and he has the ability to score in a variety of ways.”

Weicks comes to LIU after playing one season at Fullerton College in Fullerton, Calif. A 5-11 combo guard, Weicks will have three years of eligibility remaining.

“Nehemiah can handle the ball and play either guard position,” Ferry said. “His ability to shoot the three-pointer, along with David Hicks, should improve our outside shooting.”

Hicks signed with Long Island in November and played this past season at South Kent Preparatory School in South Kent, Conn. He is a 6-1 guard who played three seasons at St. Thomas Academy in Mendota Heights, Minn., before going to South Kent Prep.