Wednesday, February 4, 2015

National Signing Day: Southern Jaguars welcome 2015 class


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BATON ROUGE, Louisiana  -- National Signing Day is here and the Southern University football program is excited to welcome the future wave of Jaguars destined to compete for Southwestern Athletic Conference championships for years to come.

Head Coach Dawson Odums and the coaching staff are set to unveil the complete 2015 class at the National Signing Day celebration Wednesday night at 7 p.m. in the Royal Cotillion Ballroom in the Smith-Brown Student Union.

Southern's 2015 class features two students who have enrolled during the spring semester including Nicholas McDonald from Southwest Community College and David-Michael Carrell of South Terrabone High, who is an early enrollee.

Here are the official up-to-the-minute listing of the 2015 SU Football Signees.

No.NamePos.HometownHigh SchoolHt. Wt.Highlights
1.A.J. PalominoLBAtlanta, Ga.Newton H.S.6-1220Video
2.Mason SimsOLAtlanta, Ga.Benjamin Mays H.S6-4315 Video
3.Stacy PiroWRHouston, TexasFurr H.S.5-11170Video
4.Thaddeus HofferDE/TEMadison, Wis.East H.S.6-5235Video
5.Ceajae BryantDLHouston, TexasSpring Westfield H.S.6-1270Video
6. Jaquel Grant WRDonaldsonville, La.Donaldsonville H.S.6-1 195 Video
7.Demario HoustonCBShelby, N.C.Shelby H.S.5-11175Video
8.Brad PorterDEAmite, La.Amite H.S.6-2250Video
9.Joe DavisDE/TENew Orleans, La.J.S. Clark H.S.6-4245Video
10.Jaron JohnsonDEPort Arthur. TexasMemorial H.S.6-2245Video
11.Tedric WhiteDE/TEJefferson, La.Riverdale H.S.6-4245Video
12.Collin WilliamsOLNew Orleans, La.St. Augustine H.S.6-3310Video
13.Jahmal TillmanDEHarvey, La.New Orleans H.S.6-2250Video
14.Loren TademyDEStockbridge, Ga.Woodland H.S.6-3265Video
15.Austin OparaTEHouston, TexasSpring Westfield H.S.6-2245Video
16.Elijah AllenCBDenton, TexasDenton Ryan H.S.6-0185Video
17.Jodeci HarrisOTPlaquemine, La.Plaquemine H.S.6-7310Video
18.Montavious GainesSAnderson, S.C.TL Hanna H.S.6-2180Video
19.Jaylon BrinsonCTallahassee, Fla.Godby H.S.6-1270Video
20. Timothy Thompson ATH Jackson, La.East Feliciana H.S. 5-11 170 Video
21.Andrea AugustineSMonroe, La.Carroll H.S.6-3190 Video
22.Calvin LunkinMLBNew Orleans, La. Warren Easton H.S. 5-11 225 Video
23.Christopher JonesDTFranklin, La. Franklin H.S. 6-2 265 Video
24.Jordan WilliamsLB Lafayette, La.Northside H.S. 6-1 225 Video
25.Taylor MerrittPArcadia, La.Arcadia H.S. 6-1 180
ENROLLEDDavid-Michael CarrellLSBourg, La. South Terrebone H.S.6-0 258 Video
ENROLLEDNicholas McDonaldLB Summit, Miss. Southwest CC5-11195Video

COURTESY SOUTHERN UNIVERSITY ATHLETIC MEDIA RELATIONS

Grambling National Signing Day Nets 23 New Tigers

GRAMBLING, Louisiana – Grambling State University has been busy on the recruiting trail since the end of the season. Head Football Coach Broderick Fobbs and staff are proud to announce the 23 new Tigers that will be arriving to campus. This recruiting class includes two quarter backs, one tight end, one offense lineman, one defensive lineman, five linebackers, 7 defensive backs, and 1 tiger.

When asked about the 2015 incoming recruiting class, head coach Broderick Fobbs said "We are very excited about this group of signees that have joined our Grambling Family who will help fill some of the needs we have as we head toward the 2015 season. Here are the latest commitments that have signed National Letters of Intent:

PLAYER NAME POS HT WT HOMETOWN HIGH SCHOOL TIME SIGNED
Percy Cargo LB 6-1 200 Donaldsonville, LA Donaldsonville HS 7:00 a.m.
Darrell Woolen G/T 6-3 263 Frisco, TX Frisco HS 7:01 a.m.
Emmanuel Prather S 5-11 190 Duncanville, TX Duncanville HS 7:01 a.m.
Brandon Wiggs LB 6-2 225 Decatur, GA SW Dekalb HS 7:02 a.m.
Jamie King QB 6-3 210 Azle, TX Azle HS 7:15 a.m.
Paul Nosworthy G/T 6-4 270 Baldwin, N.Y. Baldwin HS 7:25 a.m.
Guy Stallworth K 6-3 225 Gulfport, MS Southwest MS CC 7:30 a.m.
*Tre'von Cherry QB 5-11 180 Tulsa, OK East Central HS 7:32 a.m.
*James Leatherwood S 6-1 205 Mobile, AL Leflore HS 8:00 a.m.
Terrence Brigham II T 6-4 260 Houston, TX Hightower HS 8:00 a.m.
Curtis Carson DL 6-3 265 Mobile, AL Williamson HS 8:05 a.m.
Malcolm Williams LB 5-10 235 Little Rock, AR Central HS 8:08 a.m.
Marcheal Jackson LB 6-1 205 Lawrenceville, GA Central Gwinnett HS 8:28 a.m.
Skylar Calhoun CB 5-10 190 Montgomery, AL Carver HS 8:30 a.m.
*Trey Nathan K 6-0 200 Edgard, LA West St. Johns HS 8:41 a.m.
Devonthia Alfred G/T 6-3 305 Silsbee, TX Silsbee HS 9:10 a.m.
Jeremy Carter S 6-2 195 Birmingham, AL Shades Valley HS 9:30 a.m.
Shannon Morales OLB 6-3 210 Ferriday, LA Ferriday HS 10:15 a.m.
Meco Jackson RB 5-9 180 Lithonia, GA Miller Grove HS 10:45 a.m.
Brandon Varner OL 6-3 256 Atlanta, GA Kipp Atlanta 11:06 a.m.
Terry Boyd OL 6-2 289 Batesville, MS Hinds CC Early
Anthony Jones TE 6-6 240 New Orleans, LA Edna Karr HS Early
Jeramey Hill OL 6-4 305 Vicksburg, MS Hinds CC Early
*notable recruits for Grambling State University 2015 class.

Below is the link for the power point presentation of the Grambling State University football 2015 Recruiting class: http://www.gsutigers.com/custompages/2015%20Football%20Recruiting%20Class/2015%20SIGNEES.pptx
 
COURTESY GRAMBLING STATE UNIVERSITY SPORTS INFORMATION

UAPB Announces 2015 Football Signees (33)

PINE BLUFF, Arkansas  -- The University of Arkansas at Pine Bluff announced its 2015 Football Signees today, a roster of 33 signees that includes nine defensive backs, seven offensive lineman, six linebackers, four defensive lineman, two wide receivers, two quarterbacks, two running backs and one fullback.

"It is a remarkable day for me and my coaching staff,´ said Head Coach Monte Coleman. "We were able get early commitments and then keep communication with them as much as we could so that those commitments could stand firm. I think this is one of our best recruiting classes we've had at UAPB during my tenure either as head coach or assistant coach. On paper, it makes us very excited about the upcoming season."

University of Arkansas at Pine Bluff 2015 Football Signees

NamePos.Ht.Wt.Hometown/High School/Junior College
Regan AtkinsWR6-6211Gary, Ind./ ASA College
Paul BaileyOL6-4290Forrest City, Ark./Arlington HS
Obadiah BennettOL6-4285Upper Marlboro, Md./Henry Wise HS
Je'Kevin CarterLB6-1210Ruston, La./Ruston HS
Blake ConnerFS6-1180Maumelle, Ark./Maumelle HS
Suraj DhillionOL6-4285Fort Worth, Texas/Paschal HS
Deston FreemanOL6-7300Fairfield, Ala./Fairfield HS
Courtney GainesDL6-4290Memphis, Tenn./Jones JC
Cameron GreeneRB6-1190W. Lafayette, Ind./Harrison HS
Jamel HundleyDB5-9185Trussville, Ala./UAB
Isaiah JohnsonDB6-1185Marshall, Texas/Evangel Christian HS
Henry JynesOL6-4320Little Rock, Ark./ Arkansas Baptist College
TyQuincy KilborneLB62235Ethel, La./East Feliciana HS
Khari KimbroughWR6-4185Lemon Grove, Calif./Southwestern Colelge
Michael LoweOL6-5285Miami, Fla./Northwestern
Don'dre ManeyDE6-5220Nashville, Tenn./Pearl –Cohn HS
Derrick MaultsbyOL6-4285Pittsburgh, Pa./Eastern Ariz., J.C.
Rico MerriweatherFS6-2180Augusta, Ga./Laney HS
George MonsonRB5-8200Memphis, Tenn./Trezevant HS
Jamal OdomFS6-2200Lithonia, Ga./Heritage HS
Arius OfumLB6-2245Rome, Ga./Rome HS
Scottie PeaceFS6-0200Oxford, N.C./UAB
Datruan PooleFS6-3210Atlanta, Ga./Hapeville Academy HS
Jaquan RichmondLB5-11225Fort Worth, Texas/Navarro JC
Nolan SorensenQB6-4220Clovis, Calif./Fresno City JC
Nicholas StroudDE6-2220Monroe, La./Neville HS
James SmithDB6-0170Pine Bluff, Ark./Dollarway HS
Josh SmithDT6-1290Birmingham, Ala./UAB
Robzel SylvesterOL6-4330Miami, Fla./Miami Central HS
Jontavis TestaLB6-1210Miami, Fla./Coral Gables HS
Roger TottenQB5-10185Pine Bluff, Ark./Watson Chapel
Cameron WillisFB6-1245Birmingham, Ala./UAB
Ethan WilliamsLB6-3230Birmingham, Ala./Midfield HS

COURTESY UNIVERSITY OF ARKANSAS PINE BLUFF SPORTS INFORMATION

Alabama A&M signs 19 players on National Signing Day

NORMAL, Alabama -- The Alabama A&M University football staff is excited to announce nineteen additions to the Bulldog football family on National Signing Day 2015.   

This first full recruiting class under Head Coach James Spady addresses the specific needs of the Bulldog Football program. The signees bring explosive talent and great character to "The Hill". On offense, the Bulldogs signed two quarterbacks, four linemen, one wide receiver and one tight end. Defensively, the Bulldogs added six linemen and five defensive backs.

MID-YEAR SIGNEES
Junior College


De'Angelo Ballard – QB 6'1 200 Southwest Mississippi CC (Summit, MS)
Two-year starter at SWCC…In 2014, threw for 827 yards and 7 touchdowns…Rushed for 753 yards on 116 attempts for a 6.5 yards per carry average and 7 touchdowns…Named to the 2014 "Pre-Season Dual Threat Quarterback Watch List" by JC Gridiron…Led Noxubee County High School (MS) to a 37-5 record, and the 2012 Mississippi 4A state football championship…Received All-District and All-Area honors as a sophomore and senior…Voted Most Valuable Offense Player as a senior…De'Angelo is a biology major.
Highlight Video: http://www.hudl.com/athlete/3135090/highlights/192907379

Derrick Isaac – OL 6'4 305 Pearl River CC (Hattiesburg, MS)
Named to the "Pre-Season National JUCO Top Offensive Linemen" list for 2014 by JUCO Weekly.Org…Helped lead Pearl River CC to its first winning season since 2010, while winning the MACJC South Division Championship…Participant in the MACJC All-Star Classic…Played basketball, football and soccer at McComb High School (MS)…Named most Improved soccer player his junior year…Began playing football as a senior and led team to a 2013 district runner-up finish and the Mississippi state football playoffs…A former Army Jr. ROTC student, Derrick is a Business / Sports Management major.
Highlight Video: http://www.hudl.com/athlete/3424649/highlights/197900375

Ryan Ducksworth – DL 6'3 265 Copiah Lincoln CC (Wesson, MS)
Two-year starter at Copiah Lincoln...Finished in the Top 20 in sacks in 2013 and the Top 30 in sacks in 2014 nationally for junior colleges…Voted to play in the MACJC All-Star Classic… Selected First Team All-State as a junior and senior at Taylorsville High School (MS)…Selected to All-League and All-Region Teams, Class 7 2A in 2010-2012…Led his team to the District and Regional titles in 2010 and 2012…Ryan is majoring in biology.
Highlight Video: http://www.hudl.com/athlete/2941934/highlights/191472379

Demerrius Williams – DL 6'3 270 Mississippi Delta CC (Moorhead, MS)
Totaled 38 tackles and 2 sacks at Mississippi Delta CC…At Shaw High School (MS), participated in baseball, football and basketball…Selected to the First Team defensive line on the Bolivar County All-Star Team…Named the school's Defensive MVP while helping lead Shaw to the Mississippi 1A North Half championship and state runner-up finish…Earned the school's Slugger Award as the baseball offensive MVP…Won the Most Rebounds Award in basketball…A scholar athlete, he was the salutatorian at Shaw and a Golden Hawk Award recipient…Demerrius is majoring in biology.
Highlight Video: http://www.hudl.com/athlete/3150168/highlights/205840375

Jamal Veazey – DB 5'11 180 Holmes CC (Goodman, MS)
In one season at Holmes, had 80 tackles, 2 interceptions and 4 pass break-ups… Forced 1 fumble and recovered 2…At East Jefferson High School (LA), led the Warriors to a perfect 15-0 season in 2013 and their first Louisiana state football championship…Jamal is a biology major.
Highlight Video: http://www.hudl.com/athlete/4032329/highlights/182350375


MID-YEAR SIGNEES
Prep School

Monte Jones – WR 6'4 200 Georgia Prep Sports Academy (Atlanta, GA)
At GPSA, had 32 receptions for 662 yards and 8 touchdowns…Averaged 22.2 yards per catch with a long of 80 yards…Voted Second Team Play-Book Post Grad All-American…Monte is a pre-med major.
Highlight Video: http://www.hudl.com/athlete/2849485/highlights/180253375

Jaylon Dorsey – DB 5'11 175 Georgia Prep Sports Academy (Atlanta, GA)
At GPSA, had 60 tackles, 6 interceptions, 22 pass break-ups and 3 touchdowns…Voted Second Team Play-Book Post Grad All-American…Jaylon is majoring in biology.
Highlight Video: http://www.hudl.com/athlete/1707667/highlights/164738375


HIGH SCHOOL SIGNEES

P.J. Garrett – QB 6'3 220 Bessemer Academy (Bessemer, AL)
As a senior, led the state of Alabama in passing with 2,635 yards…First Team All-State QB…Alabama Mr. Football nominee…Wendy's High School Heisman Candidate…VTO Elite 100 Top Performer…Two -time Birmingham Metro Player of the Week…Played in two state championship games.
Highlight Video: http://www.hudl.com/athlete/3895253/highlights/203918398

Joshua Williams – OL 6'4 280 Vigor High School (Mobile, AL)
A three-year starter on the Wolves offensive line…Offensive MVP of the 2014 Prichard City Classic…MVP of the Rivals Football camp.
Highlight Video: http://www.hudl.com/athlete/1421115/highlights/205620377

Kamden Young – OL 6'4 285 Scottsboro High School (Scottsboro, AL)
Four-year starter for the Wildcats…played on the defensive line, as well…All-Region Selection in 2013 and 2014…AL.com 2nd Team All-Tennessee Valley in 2014.
Highlight Video: http://www.hudl.com/athlete/1845585/highlights/205796375

Colby Seymoure – OL 6'3 300 Buckhorn High School (New Market, AL)
1st Team All-Region as a junior and senior…Voted team captain senior year…Recognized as Best Offensive Lineman on team as a senior.
Highlight Video: http://www.hudl.com/athlete/3667227/highlights/203939376

Yurik Bethune – TE 6'4 215 Davidson High School (Mobile, AL)
Voted Team Captain as a senior…Two-year starter for the Warriors…Voted Most Valuable Player of the National Underclassmen Combine in Atlanta, GA…Davidson Warrior Most Valuable WR/TE Award recipient…AL.com "Coastal Player of the Week Top 10"…Crichton Optimist Club's "DeMario Harris, Jr. Sportsmanship" Award Winner…Captain of the basketball team…Leading scorer and rebounder in 2013-2014...Mobile Optimist Club's "Basketball Player of the Week" winner…AHSAA State Finalist in 300 meter hurdles…A/B Honor Roll Member…Recipient of "Principal's Award for Science".
Highlight Video: http://www.hudl.com/athlete/o/1798341/highlights/208875376

Dylan Hamilton – DB 6'1 185 McEachern High School (Powder Springs, GA)
Amassed 104 tackles as a senior…Led team with 87 solo stops…Credited with 3 interceptions, 3 forced fumbles, 4 fumble recoveries and 1 fumble recovery for a touchdown…Voted Second Team All-Cobb County…Recipient of the Touchdown Club's "Player of the Week" Award.
Highlight Video: http://www.hudl.com/athlete/1653063/highlights/163630379

David Whitehead – DB 6' 180 Shaw High School (Columbus, GA)
Two year starter for the Raiders…As a senior, had 40 tackles, 2 interceptions, 16 pass break-ups and caught 24 passes for 560 yards and 2 touchdowns…Voted First Team All-Bi-City in 2014 and 2015…Voted to the "Dandy Dozen" Team in 2014 and 2015…Honorable Mention All-Tri-City 2014…Voted Team MVP 2014 and 2015…VTO All-Star Selection 2014…1st Team All-Bi-City Track & Field 2013 and 2014…Four- time State Track Meet Qualifier in 400 meters and 4x400 meter relay…Ranked in Top 5 in state…"In the Game" magazine award winner for Track in 2013 and 2014.
Highlight Video: http://www.hudl.com/athlete/2627334/highlights/161744377

Tyler Brown – DB 6'1 200 Northview High School (Dothan, AL)
Two-year team captain and three-year starter…In 2014, had 52 tackles, 4 forced fumbles, 2 fumble recoveries, 3 interceptions, 9 pass break-ups, 1 sack and 1 tackle for loss…Holds the school record for turnovers caused (12)…Voted to the 2014 All-WireGrass Team…Also a member of the basketball team.
Highlight Video: http://www.hudl.com/athlete/1401130/highlights/190298375

Zack Oglesby – DE 6'4 235 Gadsden City High School (Gadsden, AL)
Finished his senior year with 64 tackles, 6.5 sacks, 4 quarterback hurries and 4 pass break-ups…Led the Titans to the semifinals of the inaugural 7A Alabama state playoffs…Maintains over 3.3 GPA…Participant in the local Sheriff's Office Student Leadership Academy.
Highlight Video: http://www.hudl.com/athlete/1398186/highlights/215375375

Kadarious Daniels – DE 6'4 215 Dothan High School (Dothan, AL)
As a senior, had 46 tackles, 4 tackles for loss and 2 interceptions for the Tigers.
Highlight Video: http://www.hudl.com/athlete/1393673/highlights/185079377

Ladarious Daniels – DL 6'2 305 Dothan High School (Dothan, AL)
Three-year varsity starter for the Tigers playing both ways. In 2014, he had 5 sacks on defense and 25 pancake blocks on offense.
Highlight Video: http://www.hudl.com/athlete/1393890/highlights/206460383

Alijah Jordan – DL 6'1 250 Theodore High School (Mobile, AL)
Four year starter for the Bobcats…3 time All-Region Team member…Member of the A/B Honor Roll…His uncle, Michael, played football on "The Hill".
Highlight Video: http://www.hudl.com/athlete/1435730/highlights/125299382

COURTESY ALABAMA A&M UNIVERSITY SPORTS INFORMATION

Alabama State Jenkins Signs 15 Football Student-Athletes



MONTGOMERY, Alabama -- The Alabama State football team has signed 15 players to on National Signing Day:

PlayerPositionHT, WTHometown
Kenneth ThomasRB 5-8, 230Fort Mitchell, Ala.
Jordan WilliamsOL 6-4, 280Tallahassee, Fla.
Chase NixonOL6-6, 320Cape Coral, Fla.
Stevie SmileyTE 6-2, 225Brundidge, Ala.
Shaquille PowellDT6-1, 310Blakely, Ga.
Isaac NicksonDE 6-4, 240Banks, Ala.
Elston Ricky HalyeLB6-5, 245Norfolk, Va.
Robert EasterwoodDB 5-11,162Fayetteville, Ga.
Don'te HendricksWR6-0,180Paintsville, Ky.
Caleb MaddenDB5-9, 170Canoga Park, Calif.
Jaelen Rising-BarnwellDB6-1,165Long Beach, Calif.
Christian LoubrielOL 6-4, 275Tampa, Fla.
Samuel JenkinsOL6-3, 320Duncanville, Texas
Sam BaptisteOL6-3, 350Waycross, Ga.
ALREADY ENROLLED
Ellis RichardsonQB6-4, 235Villa Rica, Ga.

The Alabama State football recruiting bash is tonight at 6:30 p.m. at the Club Lounge at the New ASU Stadium.

COURTESY ALABAMA STATE UNIVERSITY SPORTS INFORMATION

Alcorn State Football Inks 27 on National Signing Day

Braves football has a productive day on National Signing Day

LORMAN, Mississippi  -- Head Coach Jay Hopson and his staff were eager to get to the fax machine this morning to find out who would join the Alcorn State football team for the 2015 season.

This years' class includes 27 outstanding players from the states of Florida, Mississippi, Tennessee, Texas, South Carolina, Louisiana and Alabama.

Coach Hopson is expecting all of the signees to contribute right away, as the Braves look to defend their SWAC title in the upcoming football season.

"We are very excited about the group of guys we signed today," said Hopson. "We recruited players that could come make an immediate impact and that wanted to become a Brave."

A list of the Braves 2015 signees are listed below:

Michael Ajumobi OL (6'3, 250, Grand Prairie, Texas/South Grand Prairie)
http://www.hudl.com/athlete/2939687/michael-ajumobi

Kevorkian Brewer (6'0, 182, Macon, Miss./Noxubee County)
http://www.hudl.com/athlete/1904053/kavorkian-brewer

Raidarious Anderson WR (6'3, 190, Somerville, Tenn./Fayette Ware)
http://www.hudl.com/athlete/4061165/raidarious-anderson

Jaquaveon Boles DE (6'1, 215, Duncanville, Texas/Duncanville)
http://www.hudl.com/athlete/2561366/jaquaveon-boles

Deonte Brooks OL (6'5 320, Meridian, Miss./Meridian)
http://www.hudl.com/athlete/3399811/deonte-brooks

Allen "AJ" Bruce DB (5'11, 175, Lake Providence, La./Lake Providence)
http://www.hudl.com/athlete/1057477/aj-bruce

Leishaun Ealey DB (5'10, 165, Jacksonville, Fla./Atlantic Coast)
http://www.hudl.com/athlete/1673477/leishaun-ealey

Rodney English QB (6'4, 175, Mobile, Ala./Leflore)
http://www.hudl.com/athlete/3945365/rodney-english

Trae'veris Ferrell DE (6'4, 240, Jacksonville, Fla./Atlantic Coast)
http://www.hudl.com/athlete/1746139/trae-ferrell

William Gordon OL (6'4, 318, Miami, Fla./Norland)
http://www.hudl.com/athlete/3153452/william-gordon

Darrell Henderson, Jr. DL (6'1, 315, Jacksonville, Fla./Duval Charter)
http://www.hudl.com/athlete/3299087/darrell-henderson

Albert Howard, WR (6'4, 184, Mobile, Ala./Murphy)
http://www.hudl.com/athlete/1498930/albert-howard

Corbin Johnson, ATH (6'4, 200, Jackson, Miss./Lanier)
http://www.hudl.com/athlete/3350794/corbin-d-johnson

Noah Johnson, QB, (5'11, 187, Tampa, Fla./Armwood)
http://www.hudl.com/athlete/2188147/noah-johnson

Bryce Mingo-Bradley DL (6'5, 270, Boynton Beach, Fla./Boynton Beach)
http://www.hudl.com/athlete/1893595/bryce-anthony-mingo

Solomon Muhammad LB (6'0, 205, Birmingham, Ala./A.H. Parker)
http://www.hudl.com/athlete/2227707/solomon-muhammad

Deundre Pickett-White QB (6'0, 190, Miami, Fla./Southwest Florida)
http://www.hudl.com/athlete/3822181/deundre-pickett-white

Mahlon Robinson DB (5'11, 185, Macon, Miss./Noxubee County)
http://www.hudl.com/athlete/1904060/mahlon-robinson

Quintin Smith DB (6'1, 190, Plantation, Fla/American Heritage)
http://www.hudl.com/athlete/595575/quintin-smith

Alex Taylor OL (6'4, 260, Flora, Miss./Madison Central)

Hakeim Warren WR (6'2, 187, Easley, S.C./Easley)
http://www.hudl.com/athlete/3285668/hakeim-warren

Demetrius Whitehead (5'10, 185, Hallandale, Fla./Hallandale)
http://www.hudl.com/athlete/2492798/demetrius-whitehead

Terry Whittington (6'3, 207, Cooper City, Fla./Cooper City, Fla.)
http://www.hudl.com/athlete/3030259/terry-whittington

Pablo Williams, Jr. (6'7, 320, Jackson, Miss./Jim Hill)
http://www.hudl.com/athlete/3853543/pablo-williams-jr

Mid-Year Enrollees
Evan Grimes LS (6'0, 190, Florence, Miss./East Mississippi CC)
http://www.hudl.com/athlete/4346509/evan-grimes

Edrick Thigpen OL (6'1, 315, Yazoo City, Miss./Mississippi Delta CC)
http://www.hudl.com/athlete/3150074/edrick-thigpen

De'Lance Turner RB (5'11, 205, New Augusta, Miss./Copiah Lincoln CC)
http://www.hudl.com/athlete/2941718/delance-turner


COURTESY ALCORN STATE UNIVERSITY SPORTS INFORMATION

Jackson State Signs 19 New Tigers for Football

JACKSON, Mississippi --  JSUTigers.com will be the signing day home for Jackson State football in 2015, with real-time official announcements of official letters on intent.

Tigers head coach Harold Jackson will discuss JSU's overall recruiting class and discuss each recruit during the annual signing party Wednesday night at 6 p.m. at WOW Cafe (American Grill and Wingery) located at 1100 J.R. Lynch Street near the Penguin restaurant.

JSUTigers.com will have a signing day roster with highlight videos of each signee as they become official. If you are following on social meda, get up-to-the minute news of signing day at https://twitter.com/JStateTigers or https://www.facebook.com/JSTATETIGERS.

2015 Jackson State Football Signees (updated 7:45 PM CT)

Nikolas Davis / 6-2 / 256 / OL, DL / Fayetteville, GA / Sandy Creek HS / Highlights
Vallemond German / 6-3 / 255 / DL / Anaheim, CA / Savannah HS / Golden West College / Highlights
Yacoub Hammoudeh / 6-5 / 300 / OL, DL / American Canyon, CA / American Canyon HS / Contra Costa College / Highlights
Malik Hamner / 6-5 / 228 / DE,TE / Tuscaloosa, AL / Central HS / Highlights
Jamarius Mabry / 6-4 / 190 / WR / Jackson, MS / Forest Hill HS / NW Miss. CC / Highlights
Brandon McCoy / 6-6 / 340 / T, NG / Memphis, TN / Memphis Central HS / Highlights
James Reid / 6-3 / 280 / DT, NG Vallejo, CA / Contra Costa College / Highlights
Tyler Rogers / 5-11 / 183 / DB / Starkville, MS / Starkville HS / Highlights
Nijee Smith / 6-3 / 225 / DL, OLB / Oxnard, CA / Golden West CC / Highlights
Ramone Ward / 6-1 / 182 / DB / Ellenwood, GA / Cedar Grove HS / Highlights
Brandon Wright / 6-2 / 326 / DL / Fresno, CA / Contra Costa College / Highlights
Mid-Year Enrollees (enrolled at JSU in January)
Alem Amores /6-2 / 290 / OL / Oakland, CA / Contra Costa CC / Oakland Tech HS / Highlights
Zavian Bingham / 5-10 / 185 / CB / Terry, MS / SW Miss. CC / Terry HS / Highlights
Vincent Hunter /6-4 / 325 / OL / Memphis, TN / UAB / Whitehaven HS / Highlights
Justin Morgan /6-4 / 235 / LB / Senatobia, MS / Copiah-Lincoln / Senatobia HS / Highlights
Jarin Morikawa /6-0 / 190 / QB / Mililani, HI / UNLV / Mililani HS / Highlights
Demaris Peppers / 6-3 / 287 / DL / Memphis, TN / Minnesota / Fairley HS / Highlights
Zechariah Ray /6-7 / 325 / OL / Yazoo City, MS / Copiah-Linsoln CC / Yazoo City HS / Highlights
Kenneth Tyler /6-4 / 335 / OL / Vicksburg, MS / Hinds CC / Vicksburg HS / Highlights

COURTESY JACKSON STATE UNIVERSITY SPORTS INFORMATION

FAMU head coach Alex Wood: ‘No challenge’ in recruiting

TALLAHASSEE, Florida -- Alex Wood has been on the job as Florida A&M head football coach for six weeks.

So far, most of his job has consisted of replacing what the program has lost since the end of last football season. Wood’s focus has been on recruiting and putting together his coaching staff.

On Wednesday, during a 5:30 p.m. press conference at FAMU’s College of Pharmacy, Wood will reveal the fruits of his hard work. And he doesn’t think the Rattler Nation will be disappointed.

Wood will release the roughly 15 recruits he’s expected to sign and introduce the team’s five new coaches he hired last week.

Additionally, Wood will reintroduce retained offensive line coach Edwin Pata and unveil the final two assistants, expected to be a running backs coach and a linebackers coach.

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Hopkins leads Nuggets as they sweep past Lady Tigers

NEW ORLEANS — Reserve point guard Trana Hopkins scored 12 points Monday to lead Xavier University of Louisiana in a 70-57 women's basketball victory against Edward Waters.

The Gold Nuggets (13-11, 6-2 Gulf Coast Athletic Conference) completed a two-game regular-season sweep of the Lady Tigers (14-10, 2-6). Hopkins scored in double figures for the third time this season — the first time since Dec. 30 — and led Xavier in scoring for the first time. She grabbed five rebounds, which matched her season high, and had two assists and a steal in 17 minutes.

Freshman Daylin Boatner scored 10 points for Xavier — her second double-figure game for the Gold Nuggets — and Donyeah Mayfield had nine points and 11 rebounds. Vinnie Briggs scored nine.

Kyeshia Dawkins scored 20 points for Edward Waters, and Amber Antoine and Alexis Grant scored 11 apiece.

Xavier trailed 21-12 but outscored the Lady Tigers 21-2 in the final 8:20 of the first half to take a 31-23 halftime lead. The Nuggets' Alesha Smith opened the second half with a 3-pointer, and Xavier led by double digits for all but 18 seconds thereafter. Boatner's two free throws with 3:49 remaining gave Xavier its largest lead, 63-45.

The Gold Nuggets shot 43.6 percent from the floor — their second-most-accurate game of the season — produced a season-high 19 assists and outrebounded Edward Waters 43-28. Xavier limited the Lady Tigers to 35.7 percent from the floor. Ten Nuggets had at least one assist, and all-star guard Whitney Gathright had a game-high five.

Xavier is 8-1 this season when it reaches 67 points and 10-2 when it allows fewer than 60. The Gold Nuggets avoided back-to-back GCAC home losses, which hasn't occurred since 2002, and improved their all-time record against Edward Waters to 11-0.

Xavier will continue its three-game GCAC home stand with a 5:30 p.m. Thursday matchup against Voorhees.

Box score

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Ed Cassiere, Sports Information Director
XULAATHLETICS
XAVIER UNIVERSITY OF LOUISIANA
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Rush beat Edward Waters for 7th consecutive victory


NEW ORLEANS — Defense and Morris Wright have been important components of Xavier University of Louisiana's recent men's basketball success, and they were again Monday in a 56-45 victory against Edward Waters.

Wright scored 20 points, and the Gold Rush, ranked 19th in NAIA Division I, allowed less than 50 points to a Gulf Coast Athletic Conference opponent for the second consecutive game. It's the first time in 20 years that XU recorded back-to-back sub-50s in the GCAC.

It was the seventh consecutive victory for Xavier (18-6, 7-1), its longest streak since winning nine straight from Jan. 10-Feb. 7, 2011.

"I thought our halfcourt defense in the first half was the best 20 minutes we've had all season," XU head coach Dannton Jackson said. "We were really engaged."

Xavier led 33-22 at halftime and made 9-of-10 free throws in the final 5:28 — 5-of-5 by Wright — after the Tigers (12-10, 2-6) cut the margin to 45-42. Xavier limited Edward Waters to one point in the final four minutes, a free throw with nine seconds remaining.

"Mo Wright came through at the end with some big plays," Jackson said.

Wright, Xavier's only double-figure scorer, made 3-of-5 3-pointers and had five rebounds, three assists and four steals. It was Wright's 19th double-figure scoring game this season and fifth 20-point game, both team-leading totals.

Sydney Coleman scored nine points and Troy Salvant eight for Xavier, which completed a two-game regular-season sweep of the Tigers.

Dontay Sheppard scored 15 points and Nathaniel Hill 11 for Edward Waters.

The Gold Rush are a half-game behind Talladega, which was idle, in the GCAC. Xavier's seven straight victories all occurred in conference after a 93-78 loss at Talladega in the GCAC opener Jan. 5. Since that loss the Gold Rush have allowed 54.6 points per game, and Wright averaged a team-best 15.1 points.

Talladega, ranked fourth nationally, will visit Xavier next Monday. But next for the Gold Rush will be a 7:30 p.m. Thursday home game against Voorhees, a team Xavier beat by 14 on the road last week.

"This is a journey for our team," said Jackson, who is trying to guide Xavier to the NAIA's national tournament for the fifth consecutive year. "A long journey."

Box score

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Ed Cassiere, Sports Information Director
XULAATHLETICS
XAVIER UNIVERSITY OF LOUISIANA
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Tuesday, February 3, 2015

Two FBS Opponents, Five Home Games highlight 2015 NCCU Football Schedule

DURHAM, North Carolina -- After capturing a share of the Mid-Eastern Athletic Conference championship and posting the most wins as a Division I-FCS program last season, North Carolina Central University's 11-game 2015 football schedule features two NCAA Division I-Football Bowl Subdivision (FBS) opponents and five home games.

During the 2014 campaign under the leadership of first-year head coach Jerry Mack, NCCU posted seven victories, including the program's first win over a nationally-ranked FCS opponent.

NCCU kicks off the 2015 season on Sept. 5 by hosting Saint Augustine's, a former Central Intercollegiate Athletic Association foe, at 6 p.m. inside O'Kelly-Riddick Stadium. This will be the 31st meeting between the Falcons and Eagles, with NCCU holding a 27-2-1 advantage in the series. In the last match-up on Sept. 7, 2013 in Durham, it took double-overtime for the Eagles to edge SAU, 23-20.

The Eagles reunite with Durham neighbor Duke University on Sept. 12 in the first game played inside the newly renovated Wallace Wade Stadium. The Blue Devils have won all for contests in the series that started in 2009.

NCCU faces its second straight Division I-FBS opponent on Sept. 19 with a trip to Miami to play Florida International University out of Conference USA. This will be the first meeting between the Eagles and the FIU Panthers.

After a bye week, NCCU begins MEAC play by hosting fellow conference co-champions Bethune-Cookman on Oct. 3 at 4 p.m. The Eagles defeated the Wildcats in the first meeting back in 1994, but B-CU has beaten NCCU in each of the last five contests since 2010.

NCCU makes a return trip to Florida to challenge the Rattlers of Florida A&M on Oct. 10 in Tallahassee. In the last meeting at Bragg Memorial Stadium, the Rattlers rallied for a 22-21 win over the Eagles on Nov. 10, 2012. FAMU leads the series 6-1-1.

The Eagles stay on the road for an Oct. 17 match-up against Savannah State in Georgia, as the Tigers host NCCU for its homecoming. The Eagles have won the last three meetings with SSU to push the series advantage to 7-2-1.

NCCU returns to O'Kelly-Riddick Stadium on Oct. 24 to welcome the Bears of Morgan State for a 2 p.m. kickoff. In last year's clash, MSU scored a touchdown with 32 seconds left to complete a 13-point, fourth-quarter comeback victory over the Eagles in Baltimore. The Bears have won seven of the last nine meetings with NCCU to extend their series cushion to 23-13-2.

NCCU celebrates Homecoming on Oct. 31 when the Eagles host Norfolk State at 2 p.m. A fourth-quarter special teams touchdown proved to be the winning margin for NCCU in Norfolk a year ago, as the Eagles improved their series advantage to 7-5 over the Spartans.

For the third consecutive week, the Eagles will play at home inside O'Kelly-Riddick Stadium, this time against Delaware State on Nov. 7 at 2 p.m. for NCCU Senior Day. The Eagles and Hornets last played in a double-overtime thriller in 2012, with NCCU celebrating a 23-20 victory.

NCCU travels to the nation's capital for a match-up against Howard on Nov. 14. The Eagles beat the Bison 27-22 last season in Durham to even the series at 9-9-1.

The Eagles close out the regular season in Greensboro with the 87th meeting against rival North Carolina A&T on Nov. 21. NCCU ended its 2014 campaign with a 21-14 triumph over the Aggies to earn a share of the conference title.

NCCU will hold its spring football game on Friday, April 10 at 6 p.m. inside O'Kelly-Riddick Stadium.

Details about NCCU football season tickets will be announced at a later date.

Complete 2015 NCCU Football Schedule 

DayDateOpponentLocationTime/Result
Sat.9/5/2015St. Augustine's University Durham, NC - O'Kelly-Riddick Stadium6:00 pm
Sat.9/12/2015Duke UniversityDurham, NC - Wallace Wade StadiumTBA
Sat.9/19/2015Florida International UniversityMiami, FLTBA
Sat.10/3/2015Bethune-Cookman UniversityDurham, NC - O'Kelly-Riddick Stadium4:00 pm
Sat.10/10/2015Florida A&M UniversityTallahassee, FLTBA
Sat.10/17/2015Savannah State UniversitySavannah, GATBA
Sat.10/24/2015Morgan State UniversityDurham, NC - O'Kelly-Riddick Stadium2:00 pm
Sat.10/31/2015Norfolk State UniversityDurham, NC - O'Kelly-Riddick Stadium2:00 pm
Sat.11/7/2015Delaware State UniversityDurham, NC - O'Kelly-Riddick Stadium2:00 pm
Sat.11/14/2015Howard UniversityWashington, DCTBA
Sat.11/21/2015North Carolina A&T State UniversityGreensboro, NCTBA


COURTESY NORTH CAROLINA CENTRAL UNIVERSITY SPORTS INFORMATION

TSU Tigers prevail in an overtime thriller over AAMU 68-65

HOUSTON, Texas -- The Texas Southern Tigers beat the Alabama A&M Bulldogs 68-65 in an overtime thriller Monday night. Tonnie Collier led the way with a team high 18 points while shooting 5-of- 9 from beyond the arch.

Madarious Gibbs who scored 17 points, coupled with Malcolm Riley's 15, provided Texas Southern with the balanced scoring effort needed to hold off a spirited Bulldog team that was looking to upset the Tigers who are now tied for first place in the SWAC.

Texas Southern trailed most of the first half, but would rally late in the session to pull even 29-29 at the break on a jumper from guard Tyree Bynum with four seconds remaining in the first half.

The second half, much like the first, was highly contested. With the score tied at 61, Alabama A&M's Ladarius Tabb missed a jumper with five seconds remaining in regulation.

The Tigers would eventually pull away in the overtime session and clinch the win with two clutch free throws from Gibbs with just 5 seconds remaining on the clock, giving Texas Southern the win.

Texas Southern's Nick Shepard who leads the SWAC in blocks per game provided a defensive presence throughout the night. He recorded a team high, seven rebounds and five blocks. The Tigers shot 42 percent from three point range and 47 percent from the field.

BOX SCORE

COURTESY TEXAS SOUTHERN UNIVERSITY SPORTS INFORMATION

Bryan Henry: Excitement surrounds signing day, new baseballs

COURTESY FAMU ATHLETICS
TALLAHASSEE, Florida  -- Happy National Signing Day! Wednesday is a big day for the Florida A&M and Florida State football programs.

New FAMU football coach, Alex Wood, has been on the road recruiting hard since he was named the university’s head coach. He has the athletic department buzzing, and I am excited to see the players he signs. I have had the opportunity to meet and speak with Coach Wood a couple times, and he is an unbelievable guy that will do great things here. I am really looking forward working with him and watching what he does for program and athletic department.

If you are interested in meeting the football coaching staff and learning about the players that they signed you are move than welcome to head to the FAMU National Signing Day Event. It will start Wednesday at 5:30 p.m. in the FAMU Pharmacy Building in the Florida Blue Auditorium. Feel free to come on out.

Of course, Friday, Feb. 13, can’t get here soon up for the FAMU baseball team. It is hard to believe we are getting ready to open up our season at home against Marshall.

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Albany State men swat away Clark Atlanta

ALBANY, Georgia — Like a buzzing mosquito that constantly aggravates on a hot summer South Georgia night, Clark Atlanta played the role to perfection Monday night at the HPER Gymnasium.

After watching an 18-point advantage get whittled to a basket with 3:25 left, Albany State figured out a way to exterminate the Panthers and take a 92-85 victory.

“That was a typical Clark Atlanta team,” Albany State men’s basketball coach Michael Moore said. “They always get those good athletes from the city that plays good basketball. Plus, their coach does a good job too.”

The Rams used a pair of 3-point plays at the free throw line from Darshtyn Baker and Elijah Jordan to gain themselves some breathing room, then their defense cut down Clark Atlanta’s rally attempt.

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Frost's buzzer-beater lifts Lady Rams past CAU

ALBANY, Georgia -- Mecca Frost simply couldn't let it end like that.

Down a point with less than 20 seconds to play, the Lady Rams' junior guard turned the ball over and sent the Lady Panthers to the free throw line with a chance to extend their lead.

Instead, she was just setting up for an even better ending.

After CAU missed the first of a one-and-one, Frost sprinted down the court and banked in a three-point heave with two seconds left to give the Lady Rams a 68-66 win, their fourth straight.

"I knew after I had got the ball ripped the first time, I knew I had to get a point up by any means necessary," she says. "I felt confident in that shot. I practice it all the time after practice with my teammates, so I put it up. When it left my hands, I wasn't sure. But when it hit the glass, I knew. I couldn't believe it. I was just looking at the scoreboard."


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Ty-Nita Baker Named CIAA Newcomer of the Week for the Third Time

COURTESY BOWIE STATE UNIVERSITY ATHLETICS
HAMPTON, Virginia  --  Bowie State University junior Ty-Nita Baker (Houston, Miss.) was named Women's Newcomer of the Week for the third time this season by the conference coaches and Sports Information Directors.

Baker knocked down 50 percent of her shots in games against Virginia State and Elizabeth City State and averaged 18.5 ppg and shot 80 percent at the free throw line. Her best outing of the week came at home against ECSU as she scored 20 points, grabbed six rebounds, handed out three assists, blocked one shot and accounted for two steals. She is currently the CIAA's fourth leading scorer.

The Lady Bulldogs return to action on Saturday (2/7) facing The Lincoln University Lady Lions at 2 pm in LU's Manuel Rivero Hall.

Box Score 1 | Box Score 2

COURTESY BOWIE STATE UNIVERSITY SPORTS INFORMATION

Monday, February 2, 2015

Texas Southern to host Alabama A&M on ESPNU Monday Night

BIRMINGHAM, Alabama -- Monday night’s ESPNU basketball matchup features Alabama A&M University at Texas Southern from H&PE Arena. Tonight’s battle is highlighted by one of the league’s best scorers and a team that is as hot as anyone right now in college basketball.

AAMU (5-13, 4-4) is led by Ladarius Tabb who is second in the Southwestern Athletic Conference in scoring at 17.1 points per game. Not only does he lead his team in points scored but the Shelton State Community College transfer leads the Bulldogs and is fourth in the SWAC in rebounding averaging 6.9 per outing. In his last five games, Tabb is averaging 27.4 points per contest three of which includes 31 points against Mississippi Valley State, 33 against Alcorn State, and another 30 last Saturday night at Prairie View. The Bulldogs however are still in search of that signature win. A victory over TSU (10-11, 7-1) would complete a sweep of the Texas schools as the Bulldogs topped PVAMU over the weekend.

Dating back to the month of December, Texas Southern has won nine of its last 12 games. The Tigers opened conference play by winning its first five. Their only loss came at Arkansas Pine Bluff, a team that has now won four in a row. Since falling at UAPB, TSU has since reeled off its last two. The heart and soul of this team is through its scoring leaders Chris Thomas (13.8 ppg) and Madarious Gibbs (13.3 ppg).

Tipoff Monday night in Houston is set for 8:00 p.m. on ESPNU/WATCHESPN

The complete ESPNU/WATCHESPN schedule is as follows:
February 23 – Alabama State at Southern 8 p.m.

2015 Toyota SWAC Basketball Tournament
March 15 – SWAC Women’s Final – 2 p.m. ESPN3
March 15 – SWAC Men’s Final - 5:30 p.m. ESPNU



COURTESY SWAC.ORG

Florida A&M Law student by day, MMA fighter by night (Video)



ORLANDO, Florida -- It is the second day of class as Professor Deleso Alford orders her Florida A&M University law students up to the podium, one by one, to introduce themselves.

She wants them to share an interesting fact as they spend the next several months discussing deep, personal issues about race and society.

One man says he was a high school English teacher in a previous life. Another says he was listed as state witness 48 in the George Zimmerman trial. One woman owns nine dogs and one cat that thinks he's a dog.

A dark-haired man, dressed in a tie and crisp white shirt, waits his turn as he sits in the second row, his yellow note pad open.

"William Kelly," Alford says finally.  Kelly, 29, walks to the podium.

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Albany State gears up for 2015 baseball season

ALBANY, Georgia — If January was a crazy month for you, then listen to how Albany State interim baseball coach Daniel Stockdale’s month went.

Stockdale was hired on Jan. 9 to replace Kenyan Conner, who resigned in December to join ASU football coach Mike White’s staff at Benedict.

Stockdale left his assistant baseball job at Savannah State, had a little more than three weeks to learn his new team and had to trim the roster from 40 to 28 players.

On top of that, Stockdale still hasn’t fully moved and is still living in a hotel.

Yet, when the Rams open their 2015 baseball season Tuesday afternoon against Brewton Parker College, none of that matters to the first-year coach.

“These guys are handling (the transition) well,” Stockdale said. “They needed a little organization and they’ve been able to get that corrected.”

2015 Albany State Golden Rams Baseball Schedule

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'McDonald's Rhythms of Triumph' Awards Honor People of Triad

BILL HAYES
GREENSBORO, North Carolina -- The 15th Annual McDonald's Rhythms of Triumph awards show honored people of Triad who were chosen for their outstanding accomplishments, contributions and personal sacrifices that have made an impact in the African American community on Friday.

The event took place at Greensboro Coliseum. The winners were Evainna Ross, William "Bill" Hayes, and George W. Clopton.

William "Bill" Hayes' leadership within intercollegiate athletics at Winston-Salem State University (WSSU), North Carolina A&T State University (NC A&T), North Carolina Central University (NCCU) and Florida A&M University has gained much recognition. He is in the Hall of Fame at WSSU, NC A&T and NCCU, the Mid-Eastern Athletic Conference (MEAC) and the Central Intercollegiate Athletic Association (CIAA), and has the distinction of being named the MEAC and CIAA Coach of the Year. He currently serves on the executive board of his local Boy Scouts of America and is on the board of Galilee Missionary Baptist Church in Winston-Salem.

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