Beloved Goes Oral Robert’s Way

Ron Bailey, Publisher

May 19, 2008 – Princeton Day Academy’s Beloved Rodgers signed a letter of intent to accept a scholarship offer from Oral Roberts last week, sending the 6’3”, 210 pound gaurd to that Tulsa, Oklahoma based institution.

“They found out about me, and my mother looked them up” said Rodgers of his motivation to attend the Christian school who competes in Summit League, won its regular season championship last year, and went 24-8 while earning a third consecutive NCAA Tournament appearance. “She liked the educational aspect of the school.

“I also think they have a family environment” continued Rodgers of the program, led by Summit League Coach of the Year, Scott Sutton. “I improve in situations like that”.

Van Whitfield, Princeton Day's coach with Beloved Rodgers.

Beloved also went on to note the institution’s presumable lack of a party environment given its strong religious roots and small enrollment doesn’t concern him, sharing “I’m not worried if it’s a party school”, while also stating “I like small environments, and the school will offer a lot of networking, to benefit my future”.

Rodgers should succeed on and off the floor at Oral Roberts since academically he boasted a 3.7 core GPA at Princeton Day Academy, while being expressive and articulate as well. Formerly desirous of majoring in forensic science, he has expanded the possibilities of his future vocation, and resultantly will enter Oral Roberts undecided upon a major.

On the hardwood, Beloved averaged 27.8 points per game this past season, and according to the school’s coach, Van Whitfield, lead the state of Maryland with 3.5 three pointers per contest. He also posted 13 games of 30+ points, 6 games of 30+ points in the second half and two 40+ games. Additionally, the resident of N.E. Baltimore, MD garnered five tournament MVP’s along the way.

His mother, Robin Carter, is understandably happy with Beloved’s receipt of a scholarship, having seen his older sibling, Russell Carter, attend and play for Notre Dame. Nevertheless, the active and involved parent was concerned for a minute.

“They were the only ones to offer a scholarship” shared a relived Carter, who also joked she will not accompany her son to Tulsa this week for an official visit, as she “wants him to really get his whole experience without his mom around”.

Rodgers, here dunking, is a half-court scoring machine, capable of shooting and driving.

In terms of experiences, Princeton Day, a small, new school in Maryland has worked for Rodgers. “It kind of like brought me some confidence” said Beloved of the school and its coach, Whitfield. “He had faith in me”.

Per Whitfield, the program benefited from Rodgers greatly, and consequently wishes “Beloved and his family every success as Beloved advances his academic and athletic career”.

Congrats go out to Beloved, who has followed his hoops dream to various stops, including Princeton Day and IMG Academy (Bradenton, FL), which along with his work and familal support have produced the coveted full ride.