ROANOKE (WSLS 10 SPORTS) - With offers from Cincinnati, Maryland, Pittsburgh, Navy, and more Carlos Basham Jr. took to the WSLS airwaves Monday to announce where his future will be at the college level.
"Wake Forest," he said as he revealed a jersey with his family by his side.
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With his decision now public, the rising senior can focus on his final season at Northside High School.
"It feels good, it relieves a lot of stress, a lot of coaches, a lot of recruiting places calling me, but it feels good. So this senior year I can go in and relax and have a good season," he explained.
The Viking defensive end not only made plays on the field, but also showed good work ethic and a positive attitude.
"He's a quiet guy, he doesn't say a whole lot, and sometimes that's good. Not everyone has to be that outspoken leader, but you can lead by example," said Northside head coach Burt Torrence.
While Carlos may not be very vocal, he lets his performance on the field do the talking.
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"He's very physical, he's got great bursts off the line. 6'4'', 245 (pounds), that's a great frame and maybe technique-wise a little raw, but as a college coach that's what you want," explained Rivals.com publisher Jason Stamm.
Basham isn't the first Division 1 recruit out of Northside and will probably not be the last. Torrence is entering his 10th year at the helm of the Vikings program that's captured a pair of state titles and has helped produce many athletes who play at the next level.
"They have to really buy in as they walk into the door of Northside High School in order for this to really occur for them," he said.
Stamm credits the coach, "It just speaks to the way he coaches that he's able to produce talent year in and year out and I'm kind of waiting to see who's next in line."
The players who have already learned from him, are thankful.
"I'd like to thank Coach Torrence a lot, because everything he does for us, he's a good man," Basham added.
Basham hopes his contributions that helped keep Northside a South West Virginia powerhouse can aid Wake Forest to emerge back into the ACC spotlight.