Photo courtesy Quinnipiac Athletics
By Morey Hershgordon
Tuesday, May 26, 2015 will be a day former Quinnipiac men’s basketball forward Justin Harris will never forget. The New Jersey native signed a contract with agent Massimiliano “Max” Aldi from the Alpha Agency located in Baricella, Italy in hopes to play professional basketball overseas.
His first three seasons in Hamden did not go as planned. Harris was buried behind standouts Jamee Jackson, Ike Azotam, and Ousmane Drame. He rarely saw playing time. But when the opportunity presented itself in his senior season, Harris did not let go. He opened many eyes around Metro Atlantic Athletic Conference.
He averaged 8.3 points, 6.4 rebounds and 1.1 blocks per game in nearly 27 minutes per contest. All were career-high statistics for the big man. He finished second in the conference to only Drame in offensive rebounds per game with three.
Harris’ physical stature will benefit him overseas.
“My size and strength definitely will translate well to the foreign game, and I pass real well as a big man,” he said.
With increased demands for forwards, Harris’ senior year came just in time to possibly earn himself money, while playing the game he loves. He felt especially welcomed by Aldi.
“He flew out to meet with his perspective clients and that’s rare for European agents to actually meet face to face with people,” Harris said.
Harris said the visit was a personal touch his head coach, Tom Moore, had never seen before.
“He was the first European agent that coach Moore has ever had a sit down meeting with. That showed he was real genuine about the business he conducts.”
It is still very premature as to where Harris could go, but leagues all over Europe such as Lithuania, Estonia, Latvia, Spain, Belgium, Hungary, France, Holland, and Germany are all possible destinations.
But the particular style that some teams run will help determine Harris’ potential.
“Certain styles of play run their offense through a big who can pass and make plays. If I find the right system, I can become a focal point of an offense and get the chance to show what I can really do.”
And if he does exploit his strengths, he thinks the future could be very bright.
“The first year is important for the proper exposure you need as a rookie. It’s more about where I can be placed to get the right opportunity to produce and get the [best] looks to move up into better leagues.”
