NORFOLK, Va. – Robert Jones and the Norfolk State men's basketball program have added frontcourt depth and experience with the addition of Jerome "J.C." Riley to the roster. 

A versatile forward, Riley joins the Spartans from Northwestern State, bringing multiple years of Division I experience and a strong defensive presence to Norfolk State. 

"In this recruiting class we wanted to get bigger," said Jones. "At 6-foot-10, J.C. addresses that need. He has a soft touch around the rim, and with increased playing time, we believe his production will continue to grow." 

During the 2025-26 season, Riley returned to action late in the year and made an immediate impact, highlighted by a career-high 13-point performance on a perfect 5-for-5 shooting night against Texas A&M–Corpus Christi. He also logged a season-high 28 minutes at Grand Canyon, grabbed six rebounds against New Orleans, and recorded multiple defensive highlights, including two steals against East Texas A&M. 

Riley appeared in 18 games during the 2024-25 season, making four starts, and delivered an efficient outing at Texas Tech, finishing a perfect 3-for-3 from the field with five rebounds in 12 minutes. In his first Division I season in 2023-24, he played in 23 games and recorded a career-high three blocks in a win at New Orleans. 

Prior to his Division I career, Riley helped lead Tallahassee Community College to a 31-6 record and an appearance in the NJCAA Final Four. A decorated high school standout at Lowndes High School, Riley earned all-state and Defensive Player of the Year honors while averaging a double-double as a senior. 

With his length, defensive instincts, and developing offensive game, Riley adds valuable size and versatility to the Spartan frontcourt.