Decision Time has come for Armstead: Vols or ‘Horns?

Ivan McDowell, Southeast/Midsouth Editor

April 24, 2008 - Alabama guard Malcolm Armstead has scored a lot of points and won a lot of games for Central Park Christian since transferring from Florence High two years ago. The 5’11, senior point man came to the Birmingham for a better academic and athletic challenge. The challenge has been for CPC’s opponents to try and contain the slick lefty.

Now that his prep hoops career has come to a close, Armstead has some decisions to make regarding his collegiate future.

Malcolm Armstead will be either in the Big 12 or SEC.

Having garnered interest from some of the top schools from the Big 12, Big East, SEC and ACC, Armstead has narrowed his once extensive list down to two.

“I just went to Texas last Monday and I loved it,” said Armstead. “Everything from the facilities and style of play to the coaching staff and players on the team. It was great.”

Malcolm has one last visit this weekend before he decides and it will be to Rocky Top.

“I’m going to Tennessee Friday to check them out,” remarked Armstead.

With the glaring need for a point guard, it’s easy to see why Coach Bruce Pearl and the Vols would be interested in Armstead’s services. Malcolm is well aware of what both institutions have to offer and has specific criteria.

“Basically, it’s going come down to which school I feel the most comfortable with and where I have the best chance to fit it and contribute.

Having previously listed under serious consideration Minnesota, Villanova, Wake Forest, West Virginia, LSU, Virginia, Mississippi and Georgia, Armstead decided climate and distance played a major factor in the elimination of some schools.

“I thought about the weather during the season in a few places would be too cold and how far away from home I’d be. That caused me to re-think some schools.”

Malcolm led CPC to an impressive undefeated, 32-win season; in addition to traveling around the world playing against the German National Team. Malcolm boasted a jaw-dropping 27 points, 10 assists and seven steals per game.

I first became aware of Malcolm’s skills two summers ago; as he toiled for the Alabama Challenge AAU travel team which featured high Division I signees Nick Williams, JaMychael Green, Andrew Steele and Ron Nored. Armstead showed he belonged with that elite company and held his own when coming off the bench to spell either guard spot.

“After my visit I’m going to sit down with my folks and make an informed decision. I’ll probably decide in the next couple of weeks, but it will definitely be between the Texas and Tennessee. Those are my final two.”