Alabama A&M Scores with Underrated Big Man

Ivan McDowell, Southeast/Mid-South Editor

October 8, 2007 - Coach Vann Pettaway and his staff recently picked up a vital commitment for the Class of 2008.

La Grange, Georgia and Sound Doctrine Christian Academy attendee Shane Burrell recently made a pledge to become a Bulldog and matriculate to “The Hill”.

“I felt very comfortable with the coaching staff and the atmosphere was great,” said Burrell, who visited the Normal, AL campus for Homecoming weekend.

The 6’7, 285-pound power forward will provide much needed size in the post for an A&M squad that will lose NCAA shot-blocking record holder Mickell Gladness after this season. Gladness is 6’11 and Burrell’s arrival should offset his departure.

Burrell brings a high basketball IQ and a superior skill set to the floor; tools that will certainly benefit the Bulldogs, especially with his ability to pass out of the post.

Alabama A&M University basketball coach, Vann Pettway.

“I think the best part of my game is my passing. I believe I will instantly become the best passing big man the SWAC once I get there.”

Sound Doctrine Christian Academy Head Coach Vacher Hammett concurs with Burrell’s assessment of his passing acumen.

“He’s a great passer. He needs to become more of a beast on the glass, because he has that ability. Shane can defend all positions, despite his size and is very coachable. Honestly, Alabama A&M got a real steal when Shane committed.”

“Shane has dynamic agility and an impressive knowledge of how to play the game of basketball. He actually can be unselfish to a fault, but a place like Alabama A&M will do a lot to round out his game,” said Hammett. Burrell’s game reminds many of former LSU star Glen “Big Baby” Davis.

Many colleges had taken notice of Burrell’s talents, as Oklahoma State, Drexel, Southern, Fordham and Cal-Poly were all in hot pursuit prior to his pledge. Burrell averaged 15 points, 10 rebounds and seven assists for the SDCA, while helping lead them to a 16-12 mark last year.

Accolades aside, there are still many facets to his game that the Los Angeles, CA (Dorsey High) transplant recognizes and is working tirelessly to improve upon.

“I am working to become more explosive down low, stronger and more mobile. Work ethic is not a problem though, so I know I’ll get it done.”

Burrell is also a bright young man, who sports a 2.5 GPA and recently scored a 20 on the ACT. Academic advancement that can be attributed to the structure, both on and off the court, at Sound Doctrine. Shane says he would like to study Sports Management in college.

Praise must also be given to his mother, Sardia Robinson, who obviously raised a polite, humble, gracious young man, as I thoroughly enjoyed interview Shane.