April 15, 2009

BIRMINGHAM, Ala. - The Samford basketball program announced the signing of point guard Gregg Wooten to a national letter-of-intent Wednesday as the Bulldogs' coaching staff officially completed its 2009-10 recruiting class.

Wooten, a 6-foot-2 guard from Briarcrest Christian School in Memphis, Tenn., will join 6-foot-10 Levi Barnes and 6-foot-9 Andrew Windler in the Bulldogs' highly-touted 2009-10 recruiting class. Barnes and Windler both committed to Samford during November's early signing period.

Wooten signed with the Bulldogs on Wednesday after completing a standout career at Briarcrest Christian School under the tutelage of Head Coach John Harrington.

A four-year varsity starter, Wooten concluded his illustrious prep career as the Saints' all-time leader in assists with 325. He also amassed 1,361 total points and averaged 12 points and three assists per game throughout his career.

Wooten was named "All-Memphis" by The Commercial Appeal three times and led Briarcrest Christian School to 91 wins and a trio of Tennessee state tournament Final Fours. He also piloted the Saints to the 2008 state championship title.

"We are excited to have Gregg join our program," said Samford head coach Jimmy Tillette. "He is a classic point guard with good size and a true leader on the floor. He sees the court extremely well and is an excellent decision-maker. He understands when to score and when to distribute the ball. His basketball savvy and winning mentality will be welcome additions to our team."

Wooten, a three-time recipient of BCS's Best Defensive Player Award, was also selected West Tennessee All-Region three times and was named the Most Outstanding Player of the Marshall County (Ky.) Hoopfest. Additionally, he achieved All-Tournament honors at the Arby's Classic.

Wednesday's signing of Wooten officially concludes Samford's highly-touted 2009-10 recruiting class. The three incoming freshmen will add to an already talent-laden team consisting of four returning starters and an additional eight returning letterwinners.

The Samford basketball team finished its 2008-09 season with a 16-16 overall record. The Bulldogs compiled a 9-11 mark in their inaugural year as a member of the Southern Conference and advanced to the semifinal round of the 12-team SoCon Tournament held at The McKenzie Arena in Chattanooga, Tenn.

2009-10 Samford Basketball Signees

Name, Pos., Ht., Wt., Hometown (High School)
Levi Barnes, C, 6-10, 210, Hiram, Ga. (Heirway Christian Academy)
Andrew Windler, C, 6-9, 185, South Milwaukee, Wis. (South Milwaukee HS)
Gregg Wooten, PG, 6-2, 190, Memphis, Tenn. (Briarcrest Christian School)