November 15, 2000 -- Brandon Ellerbee, a 5-11 point guard from Plano, TX has signed a National Letter of Intent to play with the Marist College men's basketball team beginning in the 2001-2002 season.
"Brandon is an excellent athlete who will enter our program at an opportune time," said Marist head coach Dave Magarity. "He will gain a year of experience from our backcourt of Sean Kennedy and Rick Smith. Brandon is an exceptional athlete who has the ability to control both ends of the court. Myself, as well as my coaching staff, are really excited to have Brandon come aboard."
Ellerbee is the first player to sign in the early period from Plano East High School since Michigan Fab Five member and current Minnesota Timberwolf, Jimmy King.
"It is an early steal for Marist to sign such a highly rated player from the state of Texas," said Mike Kunstadt, recruiting analyst and publisher of the Mike Kunstadt Scouting Service. Kunstadt's report rated Ellerbee one of the top five point guards in Texas and the 31st best player overall in the state.
Last season as a junior, he was a First Team All-Tournament selection at the Waco, Texas Top 100 Players Tournament, an All-District Team member, and helped his Plano East team to the Sweet 16 of the State Tournament. Ellerbee broke Plano East's single game assist record by dishing out 13 assists during one outing last season, while averaging 15 points and eight assists during his junior campaign.
"The Marist coaching staff have found a perfect fit with Brandon," said Ellerbee's high school coach, Steve Adair. "He has long range ability, a terrific jump shot, and plays intense defense. Brandon is not only a hard worker, but about one of the nicest kids around."
The Marist men's basketball team opens the season this Friday, November 17th, as the Red Foxes take on Ivy League opponent, Dartmouth, in the opening round of the Pepsi/Marist Conference Challenge. Tip-off is slated for 8:00 p.m. at the McCann Center.
