Where are you playing in college?
That question was on the minds of many players when talking to teammates and opponents throughout the local game of Sunday?s 7th Annual Charm City Challenge at the Towson Center.
“Most of the other guys [are going to] other schools, so it gives us a good chance to get exposure,” said Dunbar senior and first-team All-Examiner guard Eric Barksdale, who remains undecided on a collegiate destination.
Just like many seniors? college decisions, Sunday?s game came down to the wire, with the County team winning, 89-85.
“I knew a lot of people on the other team, so I was just trying to have a good time,” River Hill senior and first-team All-Examiner swingman Tommy Brenton said. Brenton, who also remains undecided, had 16 rebounds in the win to set a new Charm City Challenge record. He also added 11 points, as he, Woodlawn?s Danny Smith, St. Paul?s Denmore McDermott and Glen Burnie?s Kareem Downs hit double-digits. Downs scored 16 to lead all scorers.
With about three minutes remaining in the third quarter, Brenton followed up a missed shot by Annapolis? Lateef Williams with a reverse dunk.
“I just saw Lateef go up there, and I figured if he?s not going to finish it off, I?ll take care of it for him,” Brenton said with a smile. “I came off perfectly, so I was able to throw it down.”
Barksdale and Cardinal Gibbons? Alex Franz led the City team with 15 points each. City had won the past two contests, and the County team evens the challenge at 3-3 – as the inaugural 2001 showcase featured no local game.
For the players, a final competition in front of the home crowd was a nice send-off. For some, though, Sunday?s game was business. The opportunity to showcase their talents on a big stage could open up some opportunities for those waiting until the 11th hour to make their collegiate decree.
“Maybe some more schools will see me,” said Brenton, who is considering St. Mary?s, Barton and Virginia Weslyan. “Hopefully it opens it up.”
Charm notes
» Towson University recruit Ricardo Brown won the slam dunk contest, held Friday night at St. Frances. Brown is a 6-foot-6 forward from Harrisburg (Pa.) High.
» Eleanor Roosevelt senior forward Darnell Dodson won the three-point shootout Friday night. The 6-foot-7 Dodson will attend the University of Pittsburgh.
» The Capital Classic, run by the same group ? Corrigan Sports Entertainment ? as the Charm City Challenge, will be played Thursday at the Comcast Center. The U.S. and Capital All-Stars will play at 8 p.m. The dunk contest and three-point shootout will be held Wednesday afternoon at DeMatha.
