Springfield’s Sam Fleming to TCU

Wednesday, June 3rd, 2026

Monday night, it was announced that the BABC & Wilbraham and Monson prospect Sam Fleming had committed to join the TCU Horned Frogs for the upcoming season.

 

By all accounts, Fleming was the top remaining 2026 prospect in New England still on the board. This came as a surprise to many as the Springfield native has been a top player in the region over the past few years, but now, he’s locked in a spot at the next level. 

 

While now is a time to celebrate the achievement for Fleming, we should also take a moment to appreciate the work he had to put in to get here on and off the court. It was just about 18 months ago that he was on a clear upward trajectory and took a major hit as he suffered a lower leg injury. 

 

As many know, these are one of the toughest injuries to overcome as a basketball player, but Sam had two things you need to keep going: A strong support system and the motivation to get back on the court and keep going.

 

While he was unable to suit up for a crucial point in his recruitment during the 2025 grassroots season, Fleming was often found on the sidelines with his BABC squad, cheering on his teammates. 

 

 

That BABC team made it to the quarterfinals of the 3SSB playoffs with the likes of Abdou Toure, Amir Jenkins, Alex Egbuonu, Chase Geremia, Tahlan Pettway, and more. If Fleming were to be in his pre-injury form, their odds of advancing would definitely have increased.

 

His achievements over the years are notable. Before joining coach Mike Mannix at Wilbraham & Monson Academy, Fleming was one of the best the MIAA had to offer as he helped Springfield International Charter to an Elite Eight appearance as a freshman and the state championship game as a sophomore.

 

At NERR, we’ve been tracking Sam for years now. He came in and showed out at the 2023 Frosh/Soph Elite 75 in his first season at Wilbraham & Monson, ultimately cracking the national rankings in the following week.

 

At his size, Fleming has a coveted skill set. He stands right around 6’8, and can really handle the rock and make plays for others with his passing vision. He’s improved as a shooting threat off the dribble over the years, rebounds the ball, and just makes plays. His best asset may be the way he processes the game as he brings top-tier basketball IQ to the floor, and is a player you trust with the ball in his hands.

 

 

Wilbraham & Monson Head Coach Mike Mannix had glowing praise for Sam, both on and off the court.

 

“I’m happy for Sam and his family. TCU is getting an incredibly gifted player and a first-class kid,” said Mannix.

 

The veteran coach also spoke about Sam's resilience throughout his recovery process.

 

“I’m also proud of Sam because he kept his head up during his injury and comeback. He never had any ‘poor me’ moments. He stayed on the path and worked his way back. He’s a special kid,” Mannix added.

 

TCU extended Sam an offer at the start of April, and he’s now locked in to join the Big 12 conference program this upcoming season.

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