One of, if not the biggest, letter of intent signings in the history of CSUB Athletics became official Sunday as the Roadrunner men's basketball program received the letter of intent from Garces High School standout Stephon Carter.
Carter, a two?time Bakersfield Californian All?Area Player of the Year, choose CSUB over a host of well?known programs, including Arizona State, Colorado State and Central Valley rival Fresno State.
“Along with the commitments and decisions of all the young men that have come to California State University, Bakersfield in the last three years, this could have never happened without our commitment to an NCAA Division I Athletics program,” said CSUB Head Coach Keith Brown.
“Stephon Carter and his family along with (Garces High School Head Coach) Gino Lacava, have stepped-up and made a major commitment to our program, CSUB and the community,” Brown went on to say. “His presence was very evident on the national recruiting scene and the commitment of Stephon, his family and Coach Lacava will have immediate and everlasting impact on the future of our program as we become eligible for NCAA postseason play and evolve into a conference affiliation.”
Carter, a 6?3 guard/forward, averaged 23.4 points, 7.6 rebounds, 3.7 assists and 2.8 steals per game as a junior for the Rams.
“It's been a dream of mine to play college basketball and this is the next logical step,” said Carter at a press conference announcing his commitment. ““I just feel Bakersfield is the right place. I just felt more comfortable and welcomed there.”
“He had interest from a lot of different schools,” Lacava told the Bakersfield Californian. “Just last year, I talked to at least 25 different schools who all wanted him.
“From a selfish standpoint, it's nice to have him in town,” Lacava said. “But for him to stay in town, I think it's a testament to his character. I think it's a very well-educated decision as a player and a student.”
“Stephon's and Coach Lacava's previous statements in the release of his commitment to attend CSUB recognize and appreciate the foundation of the program, respect for current players and staff, and the support from the community that will ultimately contribute toward enhancing the total college experience for Stephon,” said Brown.
“Stephon Carter has been the best player in the city for the last four years and is the first legitimate impact NCAA Division I prospect from Bakersfield since we have entered the Division I arena. He is extremely versatile offensively with great vision and unselfish mentality. Most impressively, he has the ability and passion to take over games at the defensive end of the floor. I encourage the city to embrace Stephon's senior season at Garces High School while looking forward to welcoming him into the Roadrunner family as we continue building our program with Bakersfield pride.”
