Southern makes it official

It's been an exciting and emotional day for Joshua Southern. The 6-foot-9, 240-pound power forward from Saginaw (MI) High School just gave a verbal commitment to Boston College. Playing college basketball at the high-major level has always been a dream, but that dream became a reality earlier today, as Southern, the No. 125 ranked player in the class of 2007, has decided to take his game to the ACC.

"Joshua just gave a commitment to Boston College," said Saginaw head coach Lou Dawkins. "He has a great relationship with the coaching staff and just feels very comfortable with everything about Boston College. Joshua took a visit to Boston College and enjoyed the atmosphere and loves the program.

"The fact that Joshua will be playing in the ACC is a big deal," he added. "Boston College is a top 10 program, so playing for Boston College is a great opportunity. Joshua and his family are very excited. I am excited for him, and this has been a very happy and emotional day."

When Rivals.com spoke to Dawkins on Monday afternoon, he indicated that Southern, a three-star prospect, was seriously considering Boston College, Kentucky, Michigan State, Tennessee and Wake Forest.

Coach Dawkins also informed Rivals.com that a decision had already been made. Now that Southern, the No. 32 ranked power forward in the class, has given the nod to Boston College, he is going to prepare for his senior campaign at Saginaw High School.

There is no doubt that the Boston College coaching staff is getting a player that has the ability to step-in and be an immediate impact type player.

"I believe that the coaching staff will play Joshua at the power forward spot," he said. "He has a beautiful touch from outside and shot 80 % from the free-throw line. Joshua is the type of player that will play right away at Boston College."