Aug. 8, 2008

WINSTON-SALEM, NC – Former Winston-Salem State Ram forward Darrell Wonge became the second former WSSU student-athlete to sign a professional contract in as many months when he signed a contract to play for the Tsusho Toyota Eagles in Nagoya, Japan.

“I’m just happy that I got the opportunity to live out my dream of playing professional basketball,” Wonge said. “It was nerve-wracking at first especially after a number of other opportunities fell through, but I’m very grateful for the opportunity that I’ve received.”

A 6’6”, 210-pound forward, Wonge was noticed at a player’s showcase where dozens of players from both major and mid-major schools displayed their skills for a number of professional teams. The Fighting Eagles compete in the JBL2 League where the team recorded a 14-2 record during the 2007-08 season.

During his career, Wonge totaled 845 points at Winston-Salem State with 408 career rebounds. Wonge enjoyed a breakthrough season as a senior when he averaged a career-best 10.7 points per game and pulled in a career-high 150 rebounds for the season. A versatile player, Wonge also dished out 89 career assists with 74 career steals.

Wonge is the second former Ram to sign a professional sports contract in as many months with former WSSU defensive end William Hayes signing with the Tennessee Titans in July.  He will depart for Japan on September 1, 2008.