Former Florida A&M basketball player Malcolm Bernard opted out of his transfer to Richmond University in Richmond, Va., to attend Xavier University in Cincinnati, Ohio.
Bernard decided in March that he wanted to play his last year of eligibility as a member of the Richmond Spiders. Due to not meeting academic requirements to attend Richmond, he had to re-open his options.
“When I opened my options back up, I looked around to check out all the schools I had like Temple University and Xavier University. But at the end of the day, Xavier was the right school for me,” Bernard said.
Bernard, a graduating senior, is eligible to play his last year of eligibility at the another University. He had some help making the change to transfer but clearly said he was the “biggest influence” in coming to a decision.
“My dad and couple of trusted coaches assisted me in my decision,” said Bernard. “I also had a couple of basketball dudes I know who are basketball savvy assist me as well.”
Elijah Mays, FAMU’s junior guard, team captain and ex-teammate of Bernard, was disappointed about Bernard’s departure but firmly focuses on the Rattlers up-coming season.
“He is a great guy and great teammate on and off the court. We were sad to hear he was leaving, but this will give the other guys a chance to step up to fill that void. We feel more than confident for the up-coming season,” said Mays.
Bernard, led the Rattlers in both scoring and rebounding last season. He averaged 14.4 PPG and 7.1 RPG as a Rattler. And, he wants to continue the great play as an of member of Xavier Musketeers.
“Whatever role I am put into I just want to be the best at the role,” said Bernard. I want be as successful and productive as I can be.”