June 22, 2003

PROVIDENCE, R.I. -- Providence College sophomore defenseman James Pemberton (Cumberland, R.I.) was selected in the 2003 NHL Entry Draft, which was held on June 21-22 in Nashville, Tenn. Pemberton was drafted in the fourth round by the Florida Panthers. He was the 124th overall selection.

Pemberton, a 6-foot-4-inch, 215-pound defenseman, played in 33 games and recorded two goals and nine assists for 11 points in his freshman season with the Friars. Prior to playing at Providence, Pemberton was a standout defenseman with the New England Coyotes of the EJHL (2001-02). With the Coyotes, he led all defensemen with 35 points. In addition, Pemberton played three seasons at Mount St. Charles Academy and led the team to three consecutive Rhode Island state titles. Pemberton is the son of Lori and Robert Pemberton.

One of Providence's six incoming freshmen also was selected in the 2003 NHL Entry Draft. However, due to NCAA restrictions incoming freshmen are not eligible to be listed in this release.

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