Leopard’s Successfully Capture Wheeler

Ron Bailey, Publisher

October 15, 2006 – Lafayette College has been known in the Washington, DC area for its academics, but wasn’t necessarily a magnate for talented Metro area hoopers. Ben Wheeler, a 6’4” guard from Chantilly High School (VA) bucked that trend, recently deciding to attend the school.

“I chose Lafayette because they have a successful program and a good tradition” shared Ben via recent email communication. “Also, I really liked the coaches and players and I really enjoyed myself on my official visit”.

Other options presented to Ben duirng the recruiting process included Princeton, Dartmouth, Jacksonville, and Lehigh. Having skills on the court and a 3.65 GPA made him highly desirable by colleges and universities.

Wheeler is not all basketball, as the young man greatly values education. “It is also a great school academically which is a definite upside” supplied Ben of Lafayette. “I am planning to study Business/Economics, and they have a well known business program which also helped me in my decision”.

On the court, Ben revealed the coaches of Lafayette, an 11-17 team last season led by coach Fran O’Hanlon, envision him playing “more of the 2 (shooting guard) position to start off”, but could also deploy him at the “point depending on how things go”.

Randy White, Ben’s AAU coach with Nova United, has no worries about Wheeler’s effectiveness at either position. “I think he is a perfect fit for that league and will be able to step right in” said White, who started Nova United about 10 years ago. “He is a smart and savvy player who has shown he can play against top notch competition.”

Nova United’s head guy also harbors’ no reservations regarding Wheeler’s ability to perform in the classroom. Nor do is parents Fred and Chris, brothers Collin and Kevin. “My family is really excited”, he said. Additionally, they “were all really supportive of my decision and felt as if this was definitely the best fit for me”.

Being a talented player capable of playing either guard position, as well as a level-headed, academically focused young guy, there is little doubt Ben Wheeler will do well at Lafayette. It’s also possible his success will spur more talented, Washington, DC area basketball student-athletes to examine the school- he’s that type of young person.