Described by coach Jeff Brown as “the most versatile player he has ever coached,” former Middlebury College basketball standout Ryan Sharry has made the successful transition from NCAA basketball to Luxembourg’s top division of professional basketball. Sharry’s 6’8”, 235 pound frame and his impressive shooting, rebounding, and blocking abilities has enabled the center/forward to enjoy a successful career at Middlebury and has provided the Braintree, MA native with an opportunity to play professionally overseas.
Middlebury College:
Recruited from Boston College High, Sharry joined Middlebury’s Varsity Basketball program in September 2008 and spent his first season with the club as a reserve. As a college with a prestigious academic reputation and a strong basketball program, Sharry admits, “Middlebury was just the right fit academically and for my game.” Sharry’s freshman season was not one characterized by high-volume minutes or notable statistics, yet he was able to partake in and experience Middlebury Basketball’s NESCAC championship. Sharry went on to enjoy an incredible career at Middlebury, playing in 106 career games, and recording 1,411 points. Sharry’s talents and abilities grew each season, eventually leading Middlebury in rebounding in 2010. During that same season, Sharry also contributed with 41 blocks and 31 steals. Sharry’s contributions helped to propel Middlebury to an extremely successful season that year, advancing to the 2nd round of the NCAA Division III tournament.
Ryan’s game and impact on his team continued to grow, earning All-American honors twice over the course of his college career. Sharry is only the 2nd All-American player in the history of Middlebury Basketball, making that accomplishment extraordinary and special. In the 2011-2012 season, Sharry went on to lead the NESCAC in scoring (18.8 PPG) and blocks (2.0 BPG), earning himself another basketball honor as the 2012 NESCAC Player of the Year. Sharry’s impressive 2011-2012 campaign also earned him the title of D3Hoops.com Northeast District Player of the Year. Sharry’s ability to make a substantial impact on both the offensive and defensive ends has resulted in an extremely successful Middlebury career and an opportunity to play professionally in Europe.
Middlebury Records:
- 1,411 career points (5th all time)
- 901 rebounds (2nd all time)
- 189 blocks (2nd all time)
- 39 career double-doubles
- Career high 41pts vs. RPI
- Career high 16 rebounds vs. Colby
Professional Career:
Following his 2012 Middlebury graduation, Sharry generated interest from professional teams in Germany, England, Portugal, and Slovakia, yet his opportunity to be an impact player and a primary scoring option prompted Ryan to sign in Luxembourg. Sharry signed a one-year contract with T71 Dudelange Basketball in Luxembourg’s elite Diekirch League (now known as the “Total League”). Ryan’s professional career has just started, yet he has already enjoyed incredible success. His accomplishments at Middlebury College reflect what he is capable at the European pro level, and Path to the Pros wishes Ryan all the best with his pro career.
Middlebury Campus: Sharry Signs with T71
Boston Globe: Sharry’s Success in Pro Basketball
Images used: