Multi-talented Steele Keeps Options Open

Ivan McDowell
Southeast/Mid-South Editor

Younger brother has skills all his own

November 10, 2006 - Birmingham, AL guard Andrew Steele is a chip off the old block. In fact he is a chip off of a couple of blocks.

The 6’3 point guard is the brother of current University of Alabama junior floor leader Ron Steele. While the younger Steele hasn’t achieved the athletic success of his older brother yet, it’s clear that the blood lines are strong, and extend all the way up to father Ron Steele, Jr.

“My dad and brother are definitely my biggest influences athletically”, said Steele, who is both the starting quarterback and starting point guard at John Carroll High School.

“My dad played quarterback and wide receiver back in the days and I’ve been playing since I was young.”

Junior Andrew Steele is an apple off of the proverbial tree, as his father was also a two sport standout. (Picture is courtesy of Scout.com)

Steele’s ability on the football field is evident by his most recent exploits versus Anniston High School. Steele passed for 282 yards and three touchdowns in a Cavalier win.

“I’m definitely thinking about playing both football and basketball in college”, exclaimed Steele. Clemson, LSU and Alabama may offer the opportunity for him to do just that.

On the basketball court last season Andrew led Carroll to 29-3 record and birth in the 6A regional playoffs before falling to Sparkman High of Harvest, AL. Steele averaged a modest 13.6 points per game, along with four assists and three rebounds. With a young team and increased leadership by Andrew, look for those averages to rise.

Young Steele is a good athlete with a high basketball IQ, nice size and strength for the position and the ability to run any offense. Steele’s skill set was on full display this summer, most notably at the Nike Peach Jam where his Alabama Challenge 16U AAU squad made its mark.

Despite being on a squad with other D-1 prospects such as Malcolm Armstead, Nick Williams and JaMychal Green, Steele showed and proved why colleges are lining up for his services in basketball as well.

In the finals of the Nike Peach Jam, Andrew put 21 points on the NY Gauchos and high major point Jordan Theodore despite losing 58-56. For the tournament, Steele averaged 17 points per game and shot a robust 75%. He must improve his 3-pt shot (25%) and his handle however, to play effectively at the next level.

“I enjoyed my time in Augusta. It gave me and my teammates some much needed exposure and showed that we could play against the best”, said Steele.

Alabama, Tennessee, Connecticut, Illinois and Kansas are currently in the running for Andrew’s services with the Tide and Vols the leaders at this point.

i95Ballerz.com will be sure to monitor the progress of this impressive two-sport athlete.