Will Dante be back?

Thursday, Jan. 21, 1999

Will Dante be back?

By SCOTT M. JOHNSON
Enterprise staff writer

One of the most highly decorated players in the history of the UC Davis men's basketball program might be back for more awards next season.

Senior point guard Dante Ross -- whose list of accomplishments include All-West Region, preseason All-America, West Regional MVP and Elite Eight all-tournament -- is considering returning for another season, his sixth at UCD.

Although Ross is currently in his fifth year of college, he might be granted an extra year of eligibility because he did not participate during the 1995-96 season.

Ross redshirted as a freshman in 1994-95 and has been the starting guard in each of the past three seasons, including the Aggies' latest campaign. But because he took the '95-96 season off to be with his ill mother, he could be eligible for another year.

``Dante and I are going to meet, we're going to sit down and discuss it when the season's over,'' UCD men's coach Brian Fogel said.

Ross did not want to discuss the possible extra season in depth, but did acknowledge the possibility of returning to UCD.

``That's the rumor,'' Ross said. ``Right now I plead the Fifth.''

Ross added that he could graduate in June, but was leaving open the possibility of staggering his graduation to play another season at UCD. In Division II, athletes are allowed 15 full-time quarters to play four years of a sport.

``You can always find reasons to stay in school longer,'' Ross said. ``You can add minors and stuff like that. But everything is dependent upon other factors. Right now my main focus is just making it through this season.''

Junior teammate Jason Cox said he did not expect Ross to return.

``My indication from him is that it's unlikely he'll come back,'' Cox said. ``He has the opportunity to, but right now I'm under the impression that he wants to get on with his life. But he is leaving (coming back) as a viable option. ... He may find out at the end of the season that he misses the game and decide to play (professionally) overseas or return to play here.''

Although Cox wants what is best for Ross, he is hoping to have his teammate back for another year.

``I'd be ecstatic,'' Cox said. ``He makes a huge difference in the chemistry of the team and with his leadership. (Freshman) Tyler (Boyd) is a great backup, and I'm sure he'll be a capable replacement, but having Dante back next year would be great way for me to end my senior year.''