
A veteran Patriot with Final Four DNA and blue-collar edge
In George Mason’s 2005-06 Final Four run and throughout his Patriots career, Chris Fleming was valued less for flashy numbers and more for rugged defense, physical strength, and leadership; George Mason specifically praised his competitiveness, defensive presence, and role in guiding younger players in 2008-09. He also earned CAA All-Academic Second Team honors and a Dean Ehlers Leadership Award nomination, which fits the profile of a steady, high-IQ team piece rather than a stat-sheet hunter—ideal if you want toughness, maturity, and locker-room glue.