UNC – Wilmington is Bald’s Future Home

Ron Bailey, Publisher

June 30, 2007 – After sifting through 26 scholarship offers with more expected in July, and greater than 40 schools actively recruiting him, rising senior center/power forward Brad Bald decided UNC-Wilmington and its coach Benny Moss were the most attractive, having recently deciding to attend that school. According to Brad’s AAU coach, Triple Threat’s Keith Stevens, a number of factors created that outcome.

“He felt comfortable with the staff” first noted Stevens, of Brad’s decision to become a Seahawk. “They provide a good opportunity to play, in a very good conference (Colonial Athletic). He has a chance of playing right away”.

In addition to a comfort level with Moss et al, and the specter of immediate playing time on the horizon due to pending graduations, Stevens thinks “In their offense, he can play at the highest level”.

Brad’s dad, Jeff, agreed with these points. “Brad wants to get in and play right away” conferred the elder Bald. “He knew all along he wanted to go to mid-major”.

In terms of playing style, Jeff elaborated on the facts informing the family’s thought process regarding UNCW, sharing “They allow the four (power forward) to face up and play with his back to the basket, knock down three’s and drive. He’s just not going to be around the basket”.

“Brad (above in Triple Threat silks) gets so many phone calls, everybody wants to get in on the action”, said his father of the recruiting feeding frenzy the Bald family faced before his oral commitment to UNCW. (Bald)

According to his father, after an unofficial visit spent touring UNCW’s campus – it’s located by a beach - and facilities, while also bonding with Moss, the decision was made. “Brad was sold. He said right then he wanted to go to UNC-Wilmington”, recalled the Bald patriarch.

An ability to shoot, face up, and drive are all part of Brad’s skill set. When you add his 6’9”, 215 pound frame and intelligence (3.85 GPA), there is no wonder Brad was so heavily recruited. Essentially, all the schools in such conferences as the Atlantic 10, Colonial, Patriot, Ivy, Big South, and America East have been interested in the young guy.

After attending Archbishop Spaulding last year and averaging 11 points and eight rebounds, Brad will continue developing his physical strength, allowing him to hit the ground running in college.

Congratulations are in order for not only Brad Bald, but his family as well. With the decision, the landslide of recruiting interest will probably subside somewhat, allowing the Bald household a semblance of normalcy.

Seahawk fans, you got a keeper.