Despite having eligibility as a junior this past season, Josh Case would have preferred to be in the senior class of this year's Centenary College basketball program.

If not for some circumstances that were out of his control, Case would have been part of this year's graduating class. Instead, he will return to the Hackettstown, NJ campus next winter in anticipation of making his final year a memorable one.

"Seeing those guys play their last game was special," said Case. "I remember beginning my career here with them. I would have been out there with them. But I'm glad I got a chance to play with them and also how things are working out."

The former Catasauqua standout recently finished his season as Centenary's second leading scorer (10.4 points per game) and leading rebounder (7.5) and percentage shooter from the field (. 463) as he made 16 starts in 24 games, averaging nearly 23 minutes per game. The 6-foot-7 forward also blocked 43 shots-the fourth highest total in school history - and he knocked away at least one shot in 17 of 24 games. He also sank nine of 30 three-point attempts, a favorite shot of his when he manned a low post spot for the Roughies.

During his sophomore season, Case played in 18 games and averaged 12 minutes per contest. He averaged a little over four points per game and pulled down just over three rebounds per game.

Like he did at Catasauqua - where he excelled in basketball, soccer, and track and field Case was also known for his gritty style at Centenary, as he battled through a slow start. That style at Catty carried through at Centenary and was tested as he was forced to leave the college after a few months in his freshman year due to some family issues.

"Things were a little tough at the beginning, but it since turned out to be a really good situation," said Case. "I didn't know if I was coming back, but I made it through. I knew I also had to change my game once I got here. There were a number of changes I had to make at this level.

"In high school, I was used to stepping out and taking the three. Here, I know I have to stay down low more."

Head coach Tim Fusina has been pleased with Case's development.

"Josh has rebounded very well and is a presence in the post," said Fusina. "He (Case) can also step out and take a shot for us. He has the ability to take advantage of situations and can hit a big shot for us when we need it."

Case is also grateful to his coach, as Fusina is scheduled to return to the team next winter. Over the past three seasons, Centenary has had three different coaches in as many seasons.

"We'll have a good returning group coming back and coach (Fusina) will be back," said Case. "That will help all of us as we wouldn't have to be changing offenses again. We struggled this season (7-18 overall record), but we know we can all improve over the offseason."

As for Case, he plans to improve his play in the paint.

"I know I have to get bigger through working with weights," he said. "The play has been much physical, but I like it. I know I have to keep working down low.

"The biggest change from high school has been the fact that I always had the best defender playing me there. Here, I am playing against some guys that are bigger than me. I have learned to be more physical. I also need to work on my midrange jump shot. I like taking three's, but my jumper needs work.

"I also have to work my feet to try and get the best angles. This season, I have learned to play for a long time without coming out. It is a process and it will continue to be a tough one at times."

Josh credits his brother, Scott, the freshman coach at Catasauqua, for helping his develop his post game.

"My brother is bigger than me and he taught me to be physical," said Case. "He also taught me not to take anything from anyone. He has always been a big influence on me."

Case, a business and political science major, would like to be either a project or store manager in the future. The trip across the Delaware River to Centenary has been a smooth transition for him as it mirrors his surroundings at Catasauqua. He plans to return home to play in the summer leagues in a few months.

"This has been a good fit for me here," said Case. "I knew I could fit in better at a small school. Here I feel I know more people on a personal level and it is still close to home."

Yet, Case isn't ready to end his career.

"This was really a growing year for me," said Case. "I learned a lot about me and how to pay the game at this level. I'm looking forward to coming back next season and having a great senior season."

And Case likely will be grateful of every moment.