If Chris Boucher is going to make an impact for the Oregon men’s basketball team, it will have to be this year. The 6-foot-10 forward ,who transferred from junior college, lost a year of eligibility due to a timing issue related with the NCAA — “when the eligibility clock started.” This was first reported by 247sports.com.
The Oregon coaching staff released a statement to The Emerald regarding Boucher’s status:
“After completing his academic requirements at the two junior colleges, it was determined that Chris Boucher currently has one year of eligibility remaining. The coaching staff was aware of this possibility during Chris’ recruitment,” the statement said.
Duck Territory reported that Oregon will likely petition for a fourth season of eligibility for Boucher after the season.
Boucher averaged 22.5 points and 11.8 rebounds last season with Northwest College in Wyoming, earning himself the 2014-15 Spalding NJCAA Division I Player of the Year.
With forward Jorden Bell sidelined to open the season with a foot injury, Boucher’s impact is expected to be immediate. He is starting Tuesday night in the Ducks’ first exhibition against Northwest Christian University.
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