Wright State University’s men’s basketball team has recently welcomed a new addition in the form of Ben Southerland, a 6-7 forward hailing from Cincinnati and Sycamore High School. Southerland will be joining the Raider program as a transfer, having spent the previous two seasons at Liberty, and possessing three seasons of eligibility.
Head coach Clint Sargent expressed his enthusiasm at the prospect of having Ben and his family become part of the program. Sargent noted that they believe Southerland’s character, work ethic, and competitive nature will positively influence the team’s culture and locker room. Additionally, Sargent highlighted Southerland’s three years of remaining eligibility and his ongoing skill development as valuable assets. The team eagerly anticipates his arrival on campus and the commencement of their work together.
During his tenure at Liberty, Southerland participated in 26 games in the previous season, demonstrating a 45.7 percent overall shooting average and a 33 percent performance from three-point range. He also secured 39 rebounds, with 29 of those coming from the defensive glass. His standout performance of the season included scoring nine points in February against Middle Tennessee, and achieving a season-high of 10 rebounds against Boyce in January.
Prior to his time at Liberty, Southerland garnered experience at Sycamore High School, where he maintained an average of 17 points, six rebounds, and 1.4 steals as a senior. He received all-state first team honors and holds the Sycamore record for the most three-pointers in a season, the single-game scoring record of 41 points, and the record for the highest number of free throws made in one season.
With Southerland’s recent addition to the team, fans of the Wright State basketball program have ample reason to be excited for the upcoming season. His skills, work ethic, and achievements, both during his high school career and his time at Liberty, position him as a valuable asset to the team. It is of great interest to observe his contributions to the Raiders’ future successes.