Collin Gillespie and Jermaine Samuels to return to Villanova for 2021-22 season
Gillespie, who is rehabbing a torn medial collateral ligament, and Samuels both made their announcements on Twitter, taking advantage of an extra year of eligibility offered by the NCAA
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The Villanova men’s basketball program received a boost Monday night when starters Collin Gillespie and Jermaine Samuels announced that they will return to the Wildcats for the 2021-22 season, taking advantage of an extra year of eligibility allowed by the NCAA to winter sports athletes.
Gillespie, a co-Big East player of the year and a 2021 finalist for the Bob Cousy Award, averaged 14.0 points and 4.5 assists before suffering a torn medial collateral ligament in his left knee on March 3 against Creighton. Samuels, named honorable mention all-Big East, averaged 12.0 points and 6.0 rebounds in 25 games, including 15.5 points, 6.8 rebounds and 3.0 assists in three NCAA Tournament contests.
Gillespie and Samuels each issued a statement separately on Twitter.
“Since my injury and over the last few months supporting my teammates from the sidelines, I have had much time to think about my future,” Gillespie said. “I have received valuable feedback and have had many conversations with my family and the coaching staff allowing me to make a confident decision regarding this upcoming season.
“With that being said, I am going to take advantage of this extra year and come back to Villanova. It is going to be a blessing to put the Villanova uniform on for one last year and play for such an amazing university. I am very excited to get fully healthy again and continue to grow as a player, student and person.”
In his statement, Samuels said, “After much consideration and many valuable conversations with my family and coaching staff, I have decided to come back for another season. There’s nothing like playing Villanova basketball, wearing that V on my chest and play for my teammates and coaches. I’m excited to return to Villanova to focus on becoming an even better student-athlete and man. See you soon Nova Nation. GO CATS!!”
Villanova coach Jay Wright commented on both players in a statement.
“Collin has made the decision to return to VU after receiving valuable feedback,” he said. “He remains focused on his rehab process in preparation for next season. We’re excited to have one of our great leaders return to battle with us.
“We are blessed to have Jermaine’s character, leadership, and talent in our community for another season. He will work hard to take his game to new heights and continue to lead our team.”