Rock Hill High boys basketball coach Eric Rollings said Roderick Howell dreamed of playing college basketball, that it was his goal.

Howell’s dream was answered on Tuesday when he signed a Nation Letter of Intent with Newberry College.

The 6-foot-6 forward was one of Newberry’s top targets, Rollings said. The Wolves also signed to a scholarship Great Falls 6-5 forward Xavier Holmes, a freshman at Newberry this season.

“Newberry runs an up-tempo (offense) and seldom passes the ball because they shoot it as soon as they can,” Rollings said. “They wanted Roderick because he’s athletic and can run the floor. They want him to be their rim runner on the break.

“He will be good for their system. He made a good choice, picked a school where he fit in.”

Howell averaged 10 points, 8 rebounds and 3.5 blocks a game last season. He played on a Bearcats team that was loaded with good big men and spread the scoring around.

Rollings expects Howell to have the same impact for the Bearcats this season and hopes to see his good numbers go up.

“This is what it’s all about,” Rollings said. “I like to win, but I like to see our kids get the chance to go to college. This is great for him and his family to get his education paid for.”

Barry Byers 329-4099