Improving Clayborn looking for offers

Ivan McDowell, Southeast/Mid-South Editor

December 12, 2006 - Butler High (Huntsville, AL) guard Dionte’ Clayborn is using his senior season to make a statement.

The 6’1” guard is an active defender who can shoot the three and get to the hole against anyone. Clayborn has given Butler a much needed scoring spark out top running the point and is a big reason why the Rebels are currently 7-1.

Clayborn’s biggest attribute though is his ability to play the passing lanes, whether in zone or man, and his leadership out on the floor.

“I’m trying to work on a lot of things, but mainly my ball handling and leadership skills at the point”, said the senior floor general.

Clayborn can defend and was central to his high school's championship run. (Picture property of McDowell/i95Ballerz.com)

Clayborn’s Butler team, led by Coach Jack Doss, has won two of the last three state titles in Alabama’s Class 5A and always seems to be loaded. This year is no different with 6’6 senior Daimon Alexander and 6’6 sophomore Marquez Cothren garnering most of the attention for a well balanced attack.

“We’ve got a group of young kids that are talented, but our seniors are really stepping up, especially on the defensive end”, stated Doss.

“Dionte’ brings a lot of energy, hunger and enthusiasm to go along with some scoring and defense. That’s what he does best.”

Clayborn put up an impressive 15 points and snagged six boards in the Rebels’ win over Columbia (TN) in the Circle C Holiday tournament final. Dionte’ also had four steals. As for his latest exploits, Dionte’ lit up city foe Grissom High for 19 points in an easy Butler win.

Dionte Clayborn will make some college program very happy. (Picture property of McDowell/i95Ballerz.com)

Last season Clayborn provided a spark off the bench and worked hard in the summer to get better. Although this is his senior year, his solid effort has paid off. Dionte’ is starting in the backcourt next to fellow senior Ronny Clark.

“He’s averaging a seven to two assist to turnover ratio right now”, said Doss. “He has that hunger and confidence now to get better and has taken advantage of his opportunity.”

It’s still early in the season, so schools have just begun to take notice and Dionte’ doesn’t have a list as of yet.

“I haven’t been contacted by anyone yet, but I’m going to keep working hard and help this team win”, exclaimed Clayborn.

Schools will begin to line up once they get a glimpse of the energy, hustle and effort, Dionte’ brings to the floor. A consummate teammate, with growing basketball acumen, Clayborn will be a welcome addition to any collegiate program.