Former Booker T. Washington center DeShawn Painter verbally committed to Florida over the weekend.
It was the second big decision for Painter in as many months.
Last month, Painter – a 6-foot-9 rising senior – decided to leave the Bookers program to attend Hargrave Military Academy.
Now he’s got his college plans set, too.
“That’s where I’ve always wanted to go, to be honest,”
he said. “It was between them Louisville and Virginia. I have a good relationship with the coaches.”
Going to Florida also allows him to reunite with good friend Vernon Macklin. Macklin, a former Norcom standout, transferred from Georgetown to Florida earlier this month.
“He’s known me since the eighth grade and he’s like an older brother to me,"
Painter said. “I was with him the whole time during my visit. He showed me some things I’m going to need to do when I get to college and what things I need to work on.”
Last season, Painter averaged 14.2 points and nearly 10 rebounds a game for the Bookers last season. He was first-team All-Eastern District.
Last summer, he was 1 of 32 players selected nationally to participate in the USA Basketball Men’s Youth Development Festival in Colorado Springs, Colo. He did well, bringing him national recognition. Among the Class of 2009 players, one recruiting Web site ranked him No. 22 overall nationally and third among centers.
Knowing where he’s going to college has Painter excited about the upcoming season.
“I think I’ve made a great decision and it’s just a blessing,”
he said. “I’m ready for it. I’m ready to go there and get a good education and if I can get to the NBA, then that’s my goal. I’m looking forward to getting away and see a different side of life.”
