Cook’s A-10 Bound

Elias Benaka | Tuesday, November 4th, 2025

Chad Cook’s path from Syracuse to the Atlantic 10 has been filled with high-level competition, some of the top championship games in the country, and moving around the East Coast with opportunities to do what he loves: play the game of basketball. 

 

The 6-foot-7 forward from the New Hampton School recently announced his commitment to Richmond University, becoming one of the latest prospects to take his game from the New England prep school stage to Division I basketball.

 

Cook began his basketball journey in Syracuse, New York, where he started to establish himself as a young prospect with size and versatility in his hometown. 

 

He decided to move down to Greenville, South Carolina, his freshman year, and join Legacy Early College. During his time there, he was able to develop his game against some of the top competition across the country. 

 

After that first step, Cook decided to move north and continue his development at the New Hampton School, which had a plethora of talent in the grade above him. Competing in the NEPSAC allowed him to go up against elite forwards each game, as well as battle with Penn State Forward Mason Blackwood in practice.

 

At New Hampton, Cook became known for his versatility. Playing alongside Keyshaun Tillery allowed him to play off the screen and roll very effectively. He was able to finish at a high level around the rim and defend multiple positions. It was the kind of environment that tested him daily, and he thrived in it.

 

On the AAU circuit, he spent time with City Rocks EYBL, one of the Northeast’s most respected grassroots programs. During his time with City Rocks, he played in the Peach Jam 15U championship game and competed with some of the best New York has to offer. 

 

Last spring, he decided to join the Middlesex Magic on the UAA circuit. Playing with the Magic, he showed an improved perimeter game and a more assertive offensive mindset, standing out for his ability to play within a system while still impacting games on both ends. His season was unfortunately cut short, however, due to a collarbone fracture.

 

The experiences he encountered from Legacy to New Hampton, from City Rocks to Middlesex Magic, have all built the foundation that ultimately caught Richmond’s attention. The Spiders’ coaching staff saw a player who fits their style and is a versatile piece for their frontcourt. 

 

Cook’s commitment gives Richmond a frontcourt piece with long-term upside. He is a 6-foot-7 forward capable of defending multiple spots, rebounding, and playing in transition. As he continues to build strength and consistency, his ceiling within the A-10 is high.

 

But before his next chapter begins, Cook remains focused on finishing strong at New Hampton. The Huskies have almost a new lineup after losing their star-studded senior class, as well as Ty Tabales, as he reclassified back up and committed to Bryant. 

 

This allows Cook to have a standout season and solidify himself as a top prospect in New England alongside Jayden Harrington. 

 

From Syracuse gyms to the prep school circuit, Cook’s rise has been defined by patience and persistence. Each stop has prepared him for the next step, and now, that step leads to Richmond.

 

For the Spiders, they’re getting a forward who understands what it takes to earn everything he’s achieved and one who’s still just scratching the surface of what he can become.

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