Manhattan coach Barry Rohrssen has signed Kevin Laue, a 6-10 center with no left hand, to the 2009-10 recruiting class. Rohrssen said he signed Laue in hopes that his work ethic will help establish a winning attitude. In addition, Laue has the physical ability to be a factor on defense. He averaged about 10 points and five rebounds per game playing against other Division I recruits this past season. The Associated Press offers more information about Laue’s story, including describing the incident that caused Laue to lose his hand.
A native of Northern California, Laue played a postgraduate season for Fork Union Military Academy in Virginia this year, hoping to impress college recruiters. Coach Fletcher Arritt said Laue averaged about 10 points and five rebounds, competing against many Division I prospects.
When Laue was born the circulation in his left arm was cut off by the umbilical cord. He uses his upper arm to help receive passes, and his large right hand allows him to easily palm the ball.
“He can run as well as anybody,” Arritt said. “He can jump as well as anybody. You don’t need two hands to block shots around the basket.”
