Villanova’s Cole Swider has full intentions on playing this March.
After going down with a broken hand 16 games into the season, Swider is working his way back.
“I’m working hard everyday to get back on the court,” said Swider. “I want to be there to help my team come tournament time.”
The freshman committed to Villanova in the summer of 2017. Swider, a high-powered recruit and 6-foot-9 forward from St. Andrews School in Barrington, Rhode Island was courted by 34 of the biggest NCAA programs in the country.
“The culture of family and my relationship with the coaches made coming to Villanova the obvious choice,” said Swider.
He was doing drills at practice and broke his ring finger bone on his right hand. When Swider went down he was averaging 3.9 points, 1.5 rebounds and 10.4 minutes per game.
Without Swider in the line up Villanova is 8-1. The Wildcats had a few key victories over the likes of Xavier, Butler and Providence. Their only loss came on the road at Marquette, 65-66.
“I know my teammates are working hard during the games, so I am working hard to heal up and stay in shape so I can get back to the court and help them,” said Swider.
Swider said he is working diligently to stay in shape while in street clothes, doing drills and workouts with his left hand.
“It’s tough to watch my teammates from the bench, this experience has strengthened my appreciation for the position I am in,” he said.
