Big Shane Makes It Official

Ivan McDowell, Southeast/Midsouth Editor

November 14, 2007 - Sound Doctrine Christian Academy (GA) big man Shane Burrell will hold a press conference tomorrow on its North Georgia campus to sign his National Letter of Intent with Alabama A&M University. i95ballerz.com caught up with Shane the night before his big day.

“I really felt like A&M was where I wanted to be,” stated Burrell, after getting a late overture with Oklahoma State coming down the stretch of his recruitment.

Future Alabama A&M frontcourt player, Shane Burrell

The 6-foot-8, 265-pound post man combines nimble footwork, deft passing skills and a soft touch around the basket.

Shane visited “The Hill” for the Bulldogs’ homecoming football game versus Texas Southern earlier this fall and really seemed to enjoy his time on campus.

“I think it will be a good place to spend the next four yours of my life.”

The California native owes much of his success to his mother, Sardia Robinson, with whom i95ballerz.com spoke with on the eve of signing day.

“I talked to the A&M coaches and they made me feel comfortable,” remarked Ms. Robinson.

“They talked to me about more than just basketball and seemed to genuinely care for Shane beyond athletics.”

Ms. Robinson went on to exclaim, “I was impressed with them and what they could offer Shane, but ultimately it was his decision.”

The signing of Burrell automatically gives Coach Van Pettaway and the Bulldogs a formidable presence after 6-foot-11 shot blocker Mickell Gladness graduates this year.

He is also the Bulldogs first signee for 2008.