Home Cookin': Ram-Style

Note: It's rare, even in brief passing, that VCU is in any sporting headlines (outside of Richmond). Combine that with my beloved Jets, and a personal pop is needed to spread some surprisingly refreshing news.

The New York Jets signed five free agents Tuesday, including former Virginia Commonwealth basketball star Jesse Pellot-Rosa.

Another Duke-beater just trying to make it in the world.
Credit: VCU.edu

Pellot-Rosa, who tried out at wide receiver, helped lead the Rams to a Colonial Athletic Association title and a first-round upset of Duke in the NCAA tournament in March. He averaged 13.3 points, 4.5 rebounds and shot over 42 percent from 3-point range last season.

Pellot-Rosa last played organized football in high school. He was recruited by Tennessee, Alabama and Virginia to play football, but chose to play basketball at VCU, which doesn't have a football team.

"I love to play football just like I love to play basketball," Pellot-Rosa said during minicamp. "They are equal to me. I love to play both, and it's been like that since I was a kid -- you go out
on the playground and love to play. It didn't really matter whether it was basketball or football. I would play either one."

George Mason's Jai Lewis had a similar chance following his team's miracle run in 2006, but was not signed, with the New York Giants.

I'll be interested to see how long Jesse does or doesn't last. But for now, I bet he's smiling every minute of the way.

Until next time...