FAIRFIELD, Conn. – Sophomore center Vincent Van Nes has decided to leave the Fairfield University men's basketball team. In spite of the surgical procedure to correct an injury that occurred in high school, he is unable to perform basketball-related skills. Van Nes did not appear in a game during his two seasons with the program.
 
            “After having my third surgery on my foot this fall, the process of trying to get back to playing basketball again has been frustrating, both physically and mentally” Van Nes said. “It has required a lot of patience and I thank my coaches, teammates, medical staff and fans for their continued support during these times. It is frustrating to have been part of such a great team but being unable to fully contribute. I wish Fairfield basketball all the best for the future. I feel like its time to move on and explore other opportunities and consider my long-term health.”
 
            “Over the past year, Vince has excelled as a student and member of our basketball program while battling to overcome a career-threatening injury that he sustained in high school,” Head Coach Sydney Johnson said “Vince has worked tirelessly to bounce back from surgery and has exhausted all of his options in an effort to return to the basketball court. I am saddened by Vince's situation but I fully support the direction he is taking. Our entire coaching staff and our players will miss having Vince with us for practices and games, but I have no question that Vince will continue to serve as an outstanding representative of Fairfield University on his path to graduation.”
 
Van Nes joined the Fairfield University basketball program after helping the Northfield Mount Hermon basketball team post a 21-9 overall record. He was a McDonald's All-America nominee following the 2010-11 campaign. Before coming to the United States, Van Nes played in the Under-16 championships as a member of the Southampton Trailblazers, which placed third nationally. He played in the European championships as well for England and averaged 4.3 points and 4.2 rebounds per game during the tournament.
 
            Van Nes will continue to work toward his bachelor's degree at Fairfield University.