Sports

Pecora, Fordham land city guards

Tom Pecora was considered an expert New York City recruiter at Hofstra and he has brought that knack with him to Fordham.

The first-year basketball coach announced his 2011-12 recruiting class, which includes two talented city guards: former John F. Kennedy star Jeff Short and Lincoln standout Devon McMillan, both of whom are prepping this year at Evelyn Mack Academy in Charlotte, N.C.

“It’s always going to be a priority of ours and it’s a part of the responsibility of being a coach in New York City — you have to take care of your own first,” said Pecora, who has led Fordham to a 1-2 start. “My relationship with high school and AAU coaches helps, and obviously getting Devon and Jeff right out of the gate is going to be a big help for us.”

McMillan, a speedy 5-foot-10 guard known for his energy and defensive prowess, played at Newburgh Free Academy in Newburgh, N.Y., as a senior after spending his first two years at Lincoln. The 6-foot-4 Short was the Post’s All-Bronx Player of the Year and an All-City first-team selection after averaging 28.7 points, 14.0 rebounds and more than five assists as a senior.

The class also includes Ryan Canty, a 6-foot-9, 230-pound center spending his senior year at Brimmer and May School in Chestnut Hill, Mass.

zbraziller@nypost.com