Rattlers in the lead for Jaguars’ Carr

Ivan McDowell, Southeast/Mid-South Editor

April 9, 2008 - Johnson High (Huntsville, AL) standout forward Patrick Carr wasn’t receiving very much recruiting attention heading into his senior season. Previously, only Lipscomb, Tennessee Tech and Alabama-Huntsville were monitoring him. After a solid final campaign in which he lead the 5A Jaguars to an appearance in the regional playoffs, Carr has begun to see the fruits of his labor.

Florida A&M recently paid Patrick a visit over the spring break holiday and Carr says things went well.

“They came in a talked with me and my folks about basketball, but also asked me what I wanted to study as well,” shared Carr.

Carr's build and game is reminiscent of Pistons forward Tayshaun Prince

Carr also recently travelled to the Tallahassee campus to check out what FAMU had to offer athletically, academically and socially. The MEAC institution is known for its academic standards; a reputation notarized by graduating more African-American undergraduates in computer science than any other school in the country (the school also graduates the most Black undergrads yearly).

“I have an interest in computer science, but I like sports management as well,” remarked Carr.

The 6-foot-4 lefty wing guard can create his own shot and uses his length and athleticism to get by defenders. On the defensive end, Carr’s long arms and shot blocking ability serve him well by not allowing quicker guards to get by him. Patrick reminds many of Pistons star forward Tayshaun Prince, both physically and skill wise.

Patrick does need to improve his intensity level and perimeter shot, if he hopes to excel on the collegiate stage. Patrick also has a little work to do in the classroom, which is certainly attainable and realized by the humble-natured Carr.

“I’ve got to bring my ACT score up a little. I’ve got two more chances to improve on my initial score of 15, but I’m confident I will bring that up.”

Prior to his in-home from FAMU, Carr tripped to the University of North Alabama to check out one of their final regular season games. Patrick came away impressed with the facilities and the Lions’ style of play on the court.

“I like what they’ve got going over there. It was a nice campus,” remarked Carr after coming back from the Florence, AL University.

Paine College, Jacksonville State, Lewis & Clark and Beville State, in addition to Florida A&M, comprise Patrick’s list at this point. And Carr has a criterion that he feels is very important before he gives his pledge.

“Without a doubt I have to feel comfortable there. The environment has to feel right, in addition to the basketball,” says Carr.

Currently, Florida A&M leads for his services, but Patrick will go see Beville State, who he holds his only scholarship offer from, on Saturday.

“I’m starting to wind the process down. I’ll sit down with my parents shortly and decide in the next month where I’m going to go.”