Steward, Metro MVP, Going Juco

James Steward, a 6-5 swingman from Hayfield (VA) High School, is heading to a junior college.

Steward was named the Suburban All-Stars Most Valuable Player in their 113-110 win over the DC All-Stars in this week's Metro Classic at American University. Steward poured in 20 points on 8-for-11 shooting from the floor. He hit all but one of his five three-point field goal attempts and grabbed five rebounds. He also had one assist and one blocked shot.

Steward said that he is planning on attending Cowley Community College in Arkansas City, Kansas. Cowley was 18-14 this season, 13-5 in the conference.

Steward's leadership and timely scoring enabled the Suburbs to hold off a charging DC squad in the final minutes to preserve the win. Steward can hit the catch-and-shoot three as well as make a running jumper off the dribble. The Hayfield star, who averaged 16.5 points per game this season, is also able to free himself to get an open look at the basket.

Steward led Hayfield to a 26-3 season which ended in the Virginia state AAA semifinal 72-52 loss to Cave Spring, led by Duke-signee J.J. Redick. Steward had 21 points in the loss. Hayfield finished the 2002-02 campaign ranked 5th in the Washington Post's poll.