By By Robby Atkinson / staff writer
May 9, 2004
The Meridian Community College Lady Eagles have signed several local players over the past several years, but this may have been the biggest steal of them all.
Former Southeast Lauderdale standout Stacey Tate signed a national letter of intent to continue her basketball career at Meridian Community College in a ceremony held at the Damon Fitness Center Friday evening on campus.
"She (Stacey) has a great power game," said MCC head coach Hilary Allen. "She can be dominate a basketball game with her scoring and rebounding skills."
Tate led the Lady Tigers to a third place finish in the Class 3A tournament in her final year at Southeast Lauderdale and posted very impressive numbers in her senior season.
Tate led Southeast Lauderdale with 12.6 points per game and was among the team leaders in the rebounding category as well. Tate was not only excited about signing with MCC, but the biggest excitement of all is getting to play close to home.
"Getting to play close to home in front of my friends and family is going to be fun," said Tate. "I am glad to have a chance to play basketball at MCC next year and I will also be getting a great education as well."
The one key in the decision for Tate was the similar styles that Southeast Lauderdale and MCC play which was one of the main ingredients to the choice.
"MCC runs a very similar type offense that we ran at Southeast and it is the type of system I think that would be a good fit," added Tate. "I am looking forward to next year and I hope that I can come in and contribute for the team."
"She is going to come in next year with the ideas we already have in place," added Allen. "She is a great young lady and we are very excited that she chose to play here next year."
Southeast Lauderdale head coach Joe Miller was on hand for the signing and is pleased with Tate's decision.
"I am proud of her wanting to continue her education more than wanting to play basketball next year," said Miller. "She is a great player and we wish her the best next year."