Birdsong music to Patriots ears

Louis Birdsong took his first official visit this past weekend to George Mason University, and that was all it took for the widebodied forward from Baltimore, MD. Birdsong, long a GMU lean, called the Patriots this week to give them the news.

"Yes, Louis committed to George Mason this week," Baltimore Stars AAU coach Duane Davis told Rivals.com. "They did a great job recruiting him, and his family really fell in love with the school. He's a steal for them."

Indeed, Birdsong has a tremendous resume going into his senior season. The 6-foot-5 230 lbs. forward averaged 14 points and 12 rebounds per game last season for Mount St. Joseph's, helping to lead them to a 31-4 record. Birdsong was 1st team All-Metro and 1st team All-Baltimore Catholic League as a junior.

Birdsong is a hard-working, if somewhat undersized, power forward. His motor never seems to quit, and he actually makes his size work to his advantage, too quick for most big men, and far too powerful for wing men to guard. He has range out to 14 feet, but is far more effective attacking the basket. His hustle and physical presence should make him an immediate impact player for the Patriots next season.

He had taken an unofficial visit to James Madison, and received heavy interest from Ball State, Akron, Ohio University, Towson State, Marshall, Wright State, VCU, and Nevada. Virginia had also made some late inquiries, according to coach Davis.

Birdsong is the second frontcourt recruit for George Mason, joining 6-foot-7 230 lbs. PF Darrell Monroe from Central Florida Community College. The Patriots will now look to fill some backcourt needs, with 6-foot-2 Baltimore scorer deluxe Jamal Barney one of the primary targets.