Basketball standout Carlton Brundidge is officially a University of Michigan Wolverine .
In the school cafeteria he signed his letter of intent Nov. 16 to play college basketball next year.
“I’m very excited about joining a good school; I’m excited to get on the court and help turn the program around,” Brundidge said in excitement.
“I feel wonderful; I am very proud of Carlton,” said his mother, Debra Brundidge, who attended the signing.
It’s no surprise that Carlton is a thrill in athletics, coming from a strong background of sports. Carlton’s father, Clennie Brundidge, also made a name for himself during his high school years. Clennie Brundidge was an All-American for football and played for the Washington Redskins in the National Football League (NFL) for a chapter of his life.
Also in attendance from the Brundidge family, was brother and sister Dale and Clinique Brundidge. Dale Brundidge, 20, plays basketball at Division II school Wayne State University and holds the record for the most assists at Detroit Country Day High School. Clinique Brundidge, 26, is an All-American swimmer as well as a University of Michigan alumna.
Sharing in Brundidge’s big day was teammate Joshua Brown. He came to support his friend and stuck around for a few laughs with Brundidge. “I hope he does well at the next level,” said Brown. “I’m looking forward to the season and hope we make it to the state championship together.
Southfield High’s Head Basketball coach, Gary Teasley, who posed for pictures with Brundidge, was ecstatic to see his senior shooting guard sign a letter of intent to a Division 1 school. The last time he coached an athlete who went Division 1 was in 2008 when Austin Calhoun committed to Bowling Green State University.
“I’m extremely excited to watch (Brundidge) develop his skills with commitment and work ethic,” said Teasley. “He set goals for himself, and I’m glad he met them. I think he will have a great impact on the development of The University of Michigan’s team.”
Brundidge will join The Wolverines while Brandan Kearney of Southeastern High School has committed to The University of Michigan’s rival school, Michigan State University. Kearney is currently one of Brundidge’s biggest competitors for the state title of Mr. Basketball. “He’s a good player, and I can’t wait to play against him,” said Brunddige about Kearney. “Even though he is a good competitor, my hard work speaks for itself,” Brundidge said.
Brundidge and Kearney will face off during the Mr. Basketball Tournament on January 16, 2011, at a location to be announced. Other appearances in the tournament include LaDontae Henton of Lansing Eastern, Amir Williams of Country Day, TJ Buchanan of Kalamazoo Central, and many others in the running for the title of Mr. Basketball.
Brundidge says he hopes to do well during his final high school season, exceed the team achievements from last season and ultimately come out on top with the title of Mr. Basketball.