South Carolina forward to stay close to home

Trevor Booker always knew he wanted to stay close to home for college so when the opportunity presented itself, the 6-foot-7, 215-pound forward from Union (S.C.) High School jumped on a scholarship offer right away and committed to a school just an hour and a half away.

Booker visited Clemson on Thursday afternoon and just hours after the visit, the Tigers offered a scholarship after having a chance to get to know the three-star prospect. Booker wasted little time and made his decision and play for Oliver Purnell.

Always wanting to stay close to home and with an offer already in hand from South Carolina, Booker had a tough decision to make. Would he pick Clemson or USC? In the end it was the conference that made the decision.

"I've always wanted to play in the ACC," Booker said. "Having the chance to play against Duke and North Carolina is something I've always wanted. I believe it's the best opportunity for me. I really like the coaches and it's not too far from home."

Booker has come on strong this spring with his active and athletic play for the South Carolina Celtics AAU program. He's a strong shot-blocker that plays bigger than his 6-foot-7 frame. The lefty can play with his back to the basket or step out and knock down the perimeter shot. Booker, a do-it-all kind of prospect, should challenge the Clemson frontline from day one. His AAU coach Steve McNeely believes Clemson landed a heck of a player.

"It's just a great opportunity for him and for our program," McNeely said. "He has been a little under the radar but I know Clemson has a great kid and a great player. I'm really happy for him."

Booker will be in Bloomington, Ind., this weekend with the Atlanta Celtics for the adidas May Classic.