Hibbert, Headed to DeMatha, Ready for Challenge

Ron Bailey, Publisher

July 5, 2007 – i95Ballerz.com was able to catch up with rising junior Najee Hibbert, the 6’5”, 183lb guard from Baltimore, MD, and his father, at the recent Maryland/DC/Virginia Board Tournament. Both were gracious enough to supply their feelings about his recent transfer to DeMatha Catholic High School (MD).

“I think it’s a good move, said Najee’s father, Trevor Hibbert, of his son’s impending educational relocation. “Sometimes a change of scenery is good”.

For the last two years, Najee attended and starred at Baltimore’s Saint Frances Academy on that city’s Eastside; a site much closer to the Hibbert’s Baltimore County home than DeMatha’s Hyattsville, MD campus.

How will the younger Hibbert travel to and from the Washington area for school, practices, and games? “He’ll be taking the train or getting rides” answered the elder Hibbert. “I’m self-employed, and in the winter months, I can transport him a little”.

Najee, relayed “I’m very committed” to attending DeMatha, despite the obvious effort it will take to do so – work that entails not only the travel, but academic and athletic demands associated with his decision. The Hibbert patriarch echoed his son’s feelings, stating “I think he’s committed. I think so, academically and athletically”.

In deciding to finish high school on the southern end of the 295 Parkway, Najee’s recruitment, which is becoming very high profile, will surely continue. According to him, “Maryland and Marist” have offered, while “Clemson, Virginia Tech, Pitt, Texas” and others have and are starting to recruit him.

With a skill set that features an uncanny ability to pass from all over the court, combined with jump shooting and ball handling/penetrating talents along with good height and a developing frame, it’s not hard to see why Hibbert is becoming highly recruited.

Does Najee have a current favorite? The short answer is no, communicated succinctly by his father’s comment “It’s a long way to go”. Najee did share he does currently desire to major in “Anything with computer technology” in college, so the school in which he attends will likely be strong in that area.

It’s clear Najee Hibbert has been provided good guidance by adults around him, on and off the hardwood, including of course his father Trevor. The tutelage will continue at DeMatha and during AAU/travel team ball with Mt. Royal/Team Melo in Baltimore.

With that in mind, added to his willingness to accept a challenge many would not, it looks like he may be the next, really good Charm City product. On and off the floor.