Volleyball has been added to the bottom.
Photo by Matt Sachs, TexAgs
Texas A&M Basketball
Signing Day brings new faces for Aggie basketball, other sports
(We will add signing information from various sports as the information is fully available. Keep checking back for more additions. Added so far: men's hoops, women's hoops, men's golf, women's golf, softball, and baseball.)
The Texas A&M men’s basketball program continues to draw some of the top talent from the Lone Star State to Aggieland as head coach Billy Kennedy announced the signing of three outstanding student-athletes to National Letters of Intent.
“Our priority has been to recruit Texas and this group is based around three high-level prospects from the state that we’ll continue to build our program around,” Kennedy said. “This is a really solid class that is going to rank very highly nationally and help us with our goal of competing for championships.”
The class, which is highly regarded by all the major college basketball recruiting services, checks in at No. 13 in the country by Scout, No. 14 by 247 Sports and No. 22 by Rivals to represent Texas A&M’s third consecutive top 25 signing class. (Class rankings reflect most recent rankings as of 11/9)
The Aggies are coming off an attention-grabbing 2015-16 campaign that saw them win a school-record 28 contests en route to sharing the SEC Championship and making a run to the Sweet 16. Texas A&M officially opens the 2016-17 season Friday as it welcomes Northwestern State to Reed Arena for an 8 p.m. contest that will be nationally televised by SEC Network.
The Texas A&M men’s basketball program boosted its already impressive 2017 signing class Wednesday with the addition of Jay Jay Chandler, a highly-touted guard from Katy, Texas.
“Jay Jay is an elite athlete who can play both guard spots,” Texas A&M head coach Billy Kennedy said. “His ability to score in transition and defend at a high level improves our team. I'm pleased to add another high character kid that's excited to be an Aggie.”
A consensus four-star prospect, Chandler is regarded as the eighth-best recruit in the state of Texas by ESPN. The 6-foot-4 guard was named Class 6A All-State by the Texas Association of Basketball Coaches after leading the Cougars in scoring at 19.4 points per contest as a junior. He also averaged 7.2 rebounds, 3.5 assists and 2.5 steals per game while shooting 49 percent from the field last season.
Under the direction of head coach Neil King, Cinco Ranch compiled a 27-6 overall record during the 2016-17 season to capture the 6A District 19 Championship with Chandler standing out as the district’s most valuable player.
After playing in just 19 varsity games as a freshman, Chandler burst onto the Houston-area basketball scene during his second prep season in 2014-15 by averaging 12.2 points, 2.5 assists and 2.0 steals per contest to garner All- District 19-6A honors.
Chandler drew attention from a long list of schools from across the country before choosing Texas A&M over Arkansas, Alabama, Baylor, Georgia, Georgia Tech, Memphis, Virginia Tech and Western Kentucky among others.
Aggie Hoops Inks Elite Big Man Isiah Jasey
Talented Guard T.J. Starks Signs with Texas A&M
Women’s Basketball Signs Nation’s No. 6 Recruit, Chennedy Carter
Women's Golf Official Release:
Aggie Women's Golf signs four to NLIs
Texas A&M softball signed seven student-athletes to National Letters of Intent, head coach Jo Evans announced Friday. The signees will join the program in the fall of 2017.
Signing NLIs are Dani Elder (League City, Texas), Maddie MacGrandle (Frisco, Texas), Hannah Mayo (Corpus Christi, Texas), Gabby Moreno (Montgomery, Texas), Randi Carol Phillips (Jefferson, Texas), Kayla Poynter (Loganville, Ga.) and Abby Smith (Prosper, Texas).
“We are excited about our 2017 signing class,” head coach Jo Evans said. “We bring in a lot of depth on the pitching mound with Kayla Poynter, Maddie MacGrandle, Hannah Mayo, and Randi Carol Phillips. Each pitcher has a different skill set than the other and they will be a great complement to our current pitching staff. Dani Elder and Abby Smith give us depth behind the plate and Gabby Moreno gives us versatility in the infield and outfield. Poynter, MacGrandle, Smith, and Moreno, all hit for power, while Dani Elder is a gap-to-gap hitter. This is an outstanding group of young women; high achievers in the classroom and high character people. They will be a great addition to our program.”
Elder, who is ranked No. 44 in FloSoftball’s Top 100 for 2017, was named first team all-district and second team all-county as a junior last season. As a sophomore, the catcher and third baseman helped lead Clear Springs High School to their first playoff appearance in school history, while being named second team all-district and all-county honorable mention. In 2014, she was named district newcomer of the year. Playing for Impact Gold, Elder finished first at the 2013 ASA Nationals (14U), 2012 Triple Crown Ronald McDonald (14U) and placed third at Triple Crown Fireworks (18U Gold). In 2016 with Sudden Impact, Elder finished third at Triple Crown Nationals (18U Gold).
The 2016 Gatorade Texas Softball Player of the Year, MacGrandle led Frisco High School to the state tournament for the first time in 14 years last season, posting a 31-3 record while pitching all but two innings the entire season. MacGrandle helped Frisco to a perfect 16-0 mark during the District 9-5A schedule and struck out 393 batters in 213 innings. Offensively, the left-handed pitcher and first baseman hit .546 with 10 homeruns and 57 RBI. MacGrandle was named a First Team NFCA High School All-American, Second Team MaxPreps All-American, Texas Sports Writers Association Class 5A Player of the Year and Texas Girls Coaches Association First Team All-State. The Dallas News All Metro Player of the Year was also selected to the USA Today All-USA Second Team. As a sophomore, MacGrandle was named District 9-5A MVP, Dallas Morning News First Team All-Area and a FloSoftball Second Team All-American after striking out 293 in 175.1 innings. MacGrandle led Texas Glory Gold to top-five finishes in Colorado and at the DeMarini Invitational as well as a second place finish at the World Fastpitch Championships. MacGrandle, a member of National Honor Society, will graduate in the top-10 percent of her class.
A member of the 2016 South Texas Softball Pre-Season All-Stars, Mayo was named a District 8-6A and All South Texas Softball Second Team Pitcher. As a sophomore, Mayo was named to the TSWA All-State Softball Honorable Mention as well as the First Team All South Texas Softball pitcher. In 2014, Mayo was named the All South Texas Softball and District 28-5A Newcomer of the Year. Mayo has been a member of the academic all-district team from 2014-16.
A four-year starter for Montgomery High School, Moreno was a 2016 6A First Team All-County and second team all-district infielder after batting .457 with six homeruns, seven doubles and a triple. As a freshman, Moreno belted eight homers and a grand slam, four triples, 10 doubles and drove in 41 RBI with a .398 average. Moreno was named co-offensive player of the year and first team all-district, as well as 4A State Honorable Mention. Moreno and the Firecrackers HTX won the 2016 Colorado Fireworks 18 Open Bracket and finished second at the 2015 Triple Crown Southwest Nationals. In 2015, Moreno was ranked No. 95 in FloSoftball’s Hot 100 Recruits. Moreno holds a 4.1 GPA, is ranked fourth in her class and is a member of the National Honor Society and Spanish National Honor Society.
Randi Carol Phillips was named the 2016 Best Preps Player of the Year and District 17-AA MVP while also being named to the TSWA and TGCA First Team All-State for the third consecutive year. In 2015, Phillips was given the Bomber Way Award and was tabbed the 17-AA Pitcher of the Year and First Team All East Texas. As a freshman, Phillips was named the District 18-A Newcomer of the Year. A member of Harlton High School’s cross country team, Phillips was named the Wendy’s High School Heisman Recipient and qualified for regionals in 2013-14. Phillips also plays basketball and is a member of Future Business Leaders of America, Student Council and National Honor Society.
A native Loganville, Ga., Kayla Poynter helped lead Walnut Grove High School the 5A State Championship Game last season and was named the 5A Region 8 Pitcher of the Year. The Georgia Dugout Club All-State Player was also named the MaxPreps/NFCA Player of the Week for September 19-25. As a junior, Poynter was named the 4A All-State and Region 4 Pitcher of the Year, while leading her team to the 4A Region 4 Championship and State Championship Game. In 2015, Poynter was named the 4A Region 4 Pitcher of the Year and was a member of the 4A Region 8 First Team as a freshman.
A catcher and first baseman from Prosper, Texas, Abby Smith was named the District 10-5A Offensive MVP and earned the Dallas Morning News “Barry Bonds” Award. As a sophomore, Smith was named first team all-district and first team all-area catcher, leading Prosper High to the 5A Texas State playoff. The two-time Dallas Morning News Player of the Week was also named all-state honorable mention at catcher. Smith was named first team all-district and the team’s MVP as a freshman. With Texas Glory Gold, Smith finished second at the USSSA World Fastpitch Championships and third at the DeMarini Invitational. A Student Council class representative, Smith was named academic all-district in 2015 and 2016.
COLLEGE STATION, Texas – Texas A&M Baseball received certification on National Letters of Intent and appropriate paperwork for 13 newcomers for the 2018 season, including 10 of the top high school student-athletes in the nation, two elite junior college transfers and one of Canada’s top prep players, head coach Rob Childress announced on Friday.
“We’re extremely excited about the 2017 class,” Texas A&M head coach Rob Childress said. “I feel like Justin Seely is one of the best recruiting coordinators in the country and he and Coach (Will) Bolt put together another amazing class. They are all the type of players who can make an immediate impact.”
Ten of the 13 players hail from the state of Texas, including RHP Jack Conlon (Sugar Land/Clement), OF/RHP Zach DeLoach (Lewisville/Hebron), Tylor Fischer (Houston/Langham Creek), Will Frizzell (Rockwall/Rockwall), Cam Haller (Marshall/Marshall), Asa Lacy (Kerrville/Tivy), Christian Roa (Houston/Memorial), Dustin Saenz (Corpus Christi/Memorial), Alex Scherff (Colleyville/Grapevine) and Aaron Walters (Kerrville/Center Point).
The Aggies also inked a pair of junior college transfers, both who originate from Lincoln, Nebraska via Hutchinson Community College in Kansas. The pair includes INF Michael Helman and RHP Nolan Hoffman.
The final member of the class hails from Canada with INF Adam Hall signed from London, Ontario.
“With the position players it’s a class with a lot of strength and speed,” Childress said. “On the pitching side of things, we have some power righties and left-handers who know how to pitch with above average arm strength. It’s a very talented class that is among the top 20 in the country.”
Texas A&M opens its 2017 season on Feb. 17-19 when the Aggies host Bowling Green at Blue Bell Park for a three-game series.
2016-17 Texas A&M Baseball signing class (as of November 11, 2016)
Jack Conlon – RHP – 6-4, 210, R/R - Sugar Land, Texas (Clements HS)
Zach DeLoach – OF/RHP – 6-1, 195, L/R – Lewisville, Texas (Hebron HS)
Tylor Fischer – RHP – 6-4, 175, R/R – Houston, Texas (Langham Creek HS)
Will Frizzell - 1B – 6-5, 220, L/R - Rockwall, Texas (Rockwall HS)
Adam Hall – INF – 6-0, 180, R/R – London, Ontario, Canada (A.B. Lucas Secondary School)
Cam Haller - C – 5-10, 200, R/R - Marshall, Texas (Marshall HS)
Michael Helman – INF – 6-0, 190, R/R – Lincoln, Nebraska (Pius X HS/Hutchinson JC)
Nolan Hoffman – RHP – 6-3, 195, R/R – Lincoln, Nebraska (Southeast HS/Hutchinson JC)
Asa Lacy - LHP – 6-4, 200, L/L – Kerrville, Texas (Tivy HS)
Christian Roa – RHP – 6-3, 190, R/R – Houston, Texas (Memorial HS)
Dustin Saenz – LHP – 5-10, 180, L/L – Corpus Christi, Texas (King HS)
Alex Scherff – RHP – 6-2, 195, R/R – Colleyville, Texas (Grapevine HS)
Aaron Walters - C – 6-0, 195, L/R - Kerrville, Texas (Center Point HS)
............................
Jack Conlon – RHP – 6-4, 210, R/R - Sugar Land, Texas (Clements HS)
• Summer Team: Twelve
• All-District 23-6A Second Team in 2016
• Academic All-District 23-6A as a junior
• Notched a 1.56 ERA and 27 strikeouts in 22.1 innings in 2016
• 2015 Perfect Game Underclass 2nd Team All-American
• 2016 Perfect Game Underclass 1st Team All-American
• Earned Top 10 honors in his age group at the 2015 Under Armour All-America Pre-Season Tournament
• 2015 Under Armour Futures Texas Showcase
• 2016 Under Armour All-America Game
• Selected to play for the Texas Rangers Area Code Team in 2016
Quote from recruiting coordinator Justin Seely: Jack has long been considered one of the guys with the best stuff in the state and country. His pitchability has made big strides over the past two years because of his work habits and commitment to the game. With continued improvement of command, Jack could push for lots of innings as a freshman.
Zach DeLoach – OF/RHP – 6-1, 195, L/R – Lewisville, Texas (Hebron HS)
• 2016 Class 6A All-State First Team by Texas High School Baseball Coaches Association
• 2016 TWSA Class 6A All-State Third Team as outfielder and Honorable Mention as a pitcher
• Named 2016 District 6-6A MVP
• 2015 All-District 6-6A
• Named Newcomer of the Year for District 5-5A in 2014
• Summer Team: Dallas Tigers
• 2016 Perfect Game Underclass 2nd Team All-American
• 2015 Perfect Game Underclass High Honorable Mention All-American
• 2016 Texas Rangers Area Code team
• Posted a 9-3 record with a 0.65 ERA and 108 strikeouts over 75.0 innings in 2016; batted .416 with 28 RBI
Quote from recruiting coordinator Justin Seely: Zach has been and continues to be one of the best hitters and athletes in his age group. His ability to impact the game as a hitter, base runner, defender and even on the mound make him an elite player. With all that being said, his best attribute may be his competitive nature.
Tylor Fischer – RHP – 6-4, 175, R/R – Houston, Texas (Langham Creek HS)
• 2016 Perfect Game Underclass 1st Team All-American
• Ranked 37th in Texas, 286th nationally by MaxPreps
• Fischer was 6-2 with 49 K’s and an ERA of 3.12. He also hit .371 with 8 doubles, 5 triples, 4 home runs and 27 RBI in 2016. He had 13 SBs and 23 runs scored, helping Langham Creek advance to the State Tournament
• Hit for the cycle in a district game vs Cy Lakes
• All-District 17-6A First Team outfielder.
• Selected to play for the Texas Rangers Area Code Team.
• 2015 Texas Rangers Underclassmen Area Code Team
• Played summer ball for the Houston Banditos
• Led Langham Creek to the semifinals in the 2016 Class 6A State Tournament
Quote from recruiting coordinator Justin Seely: Tylor has an electric arm. He can run his fastball to 93-94 with the ability to spin the ball. From a frame and athleticism standpoint, he has everything you look for on the mound. He helped pitch and play his high school team to the state tournament last year as a junior. With some time with Coach Childress, Tylor has a chance to be a difference maker for Texas A&M.
Will Frizzell - 1B – 6-5, 220, L/R - Rockwall, Texas (Rockwall HS)
• Summer Team: Dallas Patriots Stout
• 2016 Perfect Game Underclass High Honorable Mention All-American
• 17U National Development Program Alternate
• Participant in the 2016 Under Armour Baseball Factory Team One Showcase
• Named All-District 11-6A First Team in 2016
• Earned District 11-6A Newcomer of the Year in 2015
Quote from recruiting coordinator Justin Seely: Will is a big man with power. He’s not just all-or-nothing guy. He can find the barrel. He is surprisingly agile for a guy his size, which is important. Will’s work habits and demeanor lead us to believe his best baseball is still in front of him.
Adam Hall – INF – 6-0, 180, R/R – London, Ontario, Canada (AB Lucas Secondary School)
• Summer Team: Great Lake Canadians/Canadian Junior National Team
• 2015 Perfect Game Underclass High Honorable Mention All-American
• 2016 Perfect Game Underclass 2nd Team All-American
• 2016 Yankees Area Code Games
• Participant in 2016 Perfect Game All-American Classic (only Canadian player)
Quote from recruiting coordinator Justin Seely: Adam is as advanced an offensive player as there is. He is an elite runner with great bat speed and hand-eye coordination. His athleticism translates on defense as well. He’s a tireless worker. He has played on as high of a level as anybody at his age. We believe he has a chance to impact our team from the day he steps foot on campus.
Cam Haller - C – 5-10, 200, R/R - Marshall, Texas (Marshall HS)
• 2016 Perfect Game Underclass Honorable Mention All-American
• Batted .370 with five doubles, one triple, six home runs, 24 runs and 18 RBI as a junior
• Threw out 23 of 39 attempted base stealers in 2016
• Varsity career BA .388 BA OBP .518 59 hits 41 RBIs .989 Fielding
• 2015 East Texas Varsity Best Preps Baseball First Team
• 2016 Class 5A All-State Third Team by Texas High School Baseball Coaches Association
• 2016 Texas SportsWriters Association Class 5A All-State Honorable Mention
Quote from recruiting coordinator Justin Seely: I ran across Cameron on the same day that I saw Aaron (Walters) and Tylor (Fischer). That was a good day! Cam’s strength at contact is special. He can impact the baseball like few kids I’ve seen. He also, like Aaron, shows great feel behind the plate. Cam is a special athlete with equally special make-up. He plays football at Marshall and he’s the school’s all-time leading rusher.
Michael Helman – INF – 6-0, 190, R/R – Lincoln, Nebraska (Pius X HS/Hutchinson JC)
• 2016 ABCA/Rawlings NJCAA Division I Baseball Gold Glove Team as a second baseman
• 2016 All-Jayhawk West First Team
• 2016 All-Region VI First Team
• Region VI Gold Glove selection as a second baseman
• Hit .416 with 20 doubles, 2 triples, 9 home runs, 58 RBI and 64 runs in 2016 at Hutchinson Community College
• Stole 24 bases in 25 tries and logged 30 multi-hit games
• 2014 and 2015 All-Nebraska Class B First Team
• Posted a 6-0 record with a 0.18 ERA and 45 strikeouts in 39.2 innings on the mound and hit .439 with 11 doubles, three triples, one home run and 22 RBI at the plate
• All-USA Nebraska First Team in 2015 and Second Team in 2014
• 2014 Class B State Champion
Quote from recruiting coordinator Justin Seely: Michael is versatile and athletic. He can play a number of infield positions and do it while bringing offense to the table. Michael can defend, run, hit and he can hit with occasional power. He also pitched at Hutchinson last year. His versatility and offensive game make him very valuable.
Nolan Hoffman – RHP – 6-3, 195, R/R – Lincoln, Nebraska (Southeast HS/Hutchinson JC)
• 3.06 ERA with an 8-3 record and 87 strikeouts at Hutchinson Community College in 2016
• Worked five complete games and one shutout in 2016
• 2016 All-Jayhawk Conference Second Team
• Posted 1.62 ERA and 7-1 record in 2015
• Batted .360 with over high school career
• 2015 District A5 Champions
• 2015 All-USA Nebraska First Team
• 2014 Academic All-State
Quote from recruiting coordinator Justin Seely: Nolan throws three pitches for a strike on command – any count – any time. He has plus pitchability with a mean streak on the mound. His level of attack fits with our style and makeup of our program. We feel very confident that Nolan can come in and pitch from the get-go and do it with SEC-level stuff.
Asa Lacy - LHP – 6-4, 200, L/L – Kerrville, Texas (Tivy HS)
• 2016 Perfect Game Underclass Honorable Mention All-American
• Selected All-District 27-5A Second Team in 2016
• Played for the 2016 Texas Rangers Area Code team
• Summer team: Dallas Mustangs
• Ranked 87th prospect in Texas by MaxPreps
• 2015 District 27-5A Newcomer of the Year
Quote from recruiting coordinator Justin Seely: Asa is a long, projectable body with downhill plane to his fastball. He is just scratching the surface of what he is capable of. I’m really excited to see what he and Coach Childress can do together. Every time I see Asa, he is getting better. He currently has three pitches and they all have the makings of above average pitches.
Christian Roa – RHP – 6-3, 190, R/R – Houston, Texas (Memorial HS)
• Summer Team: C2 Select
• 2016 Texas Prep Class 6A All-Houston Honorable Mention Utility Player
• 2016 All-District 18-6A First Team
• 2016 Academic All-District 18-6A
• 2015 Academic All-District 18-6A
Quote from recruiting coordinator Justin Seely: Christian commands three pitches at times and he can get above his fastball with tilt, as well. We feel like he will only get better every time he plays. 90-mile-per-hour arms that are athletic and competitive aren’t easy to find, especially with projection. Christian plays wide receiver at Memorial in the fall and he’s a good player.
Dustin Saenz – LHP – 5-10, 180, L/L – Corpus Christi, Texas (King HS)
• Summer team: Team Mizuno USA
• 2016 Perfect Game Underclass Honorable Mention All-American
• 9-1 with a 0.58 ERA and 124 strikeouts in 73.0 innings in the 2016 campaign
• Ranked second among all Class 6A pitchers with 124 strikeouts as a junior
• 2016 Class 6A All-State First Team by Texas High School Baseball Coaches Association
• 2016 6A All-State Honorable Mention by the Texas Sports Writers Association
• 2016 All-District 30-6A First Team
• 2015 All-District 28-6A First Team
• 9-1 with a 1.43 ERA in 2015
Quote from recruiting coordinator Justin Seely: Dustin was one of the leaders in the state in strikeouts. He has an extremely quick arm with feel for spin already. He can fulfill a lot of roles early in his career because of his versatility. He isn’t just a little guy that can pitch. He has great stuff, too.
Alex Scherff – RHP – 6-2, 195, R/R – Colleyville, Texas (Colleyville Heritage HS)
• Ranked #6 in 2017 MLB Top 100 Prospects
• Under Armour All-American Game participant
• 2016 All-DFW Third Team
• 2016 TAPPS 5A State Champion
• 11-0 record and a 0.75 ERA in 2016
• 2015 TAPPS 4A All-District First Team
• 2015 TAPPS 4A All-State First Team
• 11-2 record with 116 strikeouts and a 0.65 ERA in 2015
• 2014 6-5A Newcomer of the Year
Quote from recruiting coordinator Justin Seely: Alex has a power fastball that can run into the high 90s on occasion. The strength of his game really comes from his ability to throw his changeup. That pitch is what really baffles the higher level guys he has faced. Alex’s work habits and commitment to his routine and plan are on a different level than most. His success is hard-earned. There are a number of roles Alex could fit into from day one on campus because of his three pitches and attacking style on the mound.
Aaron Walters - C – 6-1, 195, L/R - Kerrville, Texas (Center Point HS)
• Summer Team: Prospects National
• 2015 Perfect Game Underclass Honorable Mention All-American
• 2016 Perfect Game Underclass High Honorable Mention All-American
• In 2016, Walters had a .539 batting average with 14 doubles, 7 home runs, 26 RBI and 27 Runs. On the mound, Walters was 7-5 with a 1.32 ERA and an amazing 160 strikeouts. Walters was selected as the 29-2A District MVP. He also made the Texas Sportswriters Association All-State Team as a Second-Team Catcher and Honorable Mention pitcher.
• In 2015, as a sophomore, Walters batted .542 with 13 doubles, 8 home runs, 49 RBI and 39 Runs. He also went 9-1 with a 0.79 ERA and 92 strikeouts. He was selected the 29-2A District MVP and made both the Texas High School Baseball Coaches Association All-State Team and the Texas Sports Writers Association All-State Team.
• As a freshman, he was the District Co-MVP and made Honorable Mention All-State.
• Selected to the 2016 Texas Rangers Area Code Team
Quote from recruiting coordinator Justin Seely: Aaron is son of a coach and the brother of Ashley Walters, who catches for Coach Evans here at Texas A&M. Aaron can flat out hit and compete. Every time we see him play, he finds the barrel. He reminds us of Cole Lankford at the same age with more strength. His feel for the game is advanced for his age. He’s a great all-around athlete and the quarterback of his high school football team.
Texas A&M head coach Laurie Corbelli announced the signing of four heralded student-athletes to National Letters of Intent to play volleyball for the Aggies. All four signees are mentioned in PrepVolleyball.com’s top 250 list of the Class of 2017 Senior Aces, including three who are in the top 100.
Men's Basketball Official Releases:
Men's basketball signs nationally-ranked class
The Texas A&M men’s basketball program continues to draw some of the top talent from the Lone Star State to Aggieland as head coach Billy Kennedy announced the signing of three outstanding student-athletes to National Letters of Intent.
“Our priority has been to recruit Texas and this group is based around three high-level prospects from the state that we’ll continue to build our program around,” Kennedy said. “This is a really solid class that is going to rank very highly nationally and help us with our goal of competing for championships.”
The class, which is highly regarded by all the major college basketball recruiting services, checks in at No. 13 in the country by Scout, No. 14 by 247 Sports and No. 22 by Rivals to represent Texas A&M’s third consecutive top 25 signing class. (Class rankings reflect most recent rankings as of 11/9)
The Aggies are coming off an attention-grabbing 2015-16 campaign that saw them win a school-record 28 contests en route to sharing the SEC Championship and making a run to the Sweet 16. Texas A&M officially opens the 2016-17 season Friday as it welcomes Northwestern State to Reed Arena for an 8 p.m. contest that will be nationally televised by SEC Network.
Texas A&M adds Guard Jay Jay Chandler to '17 Class
The Texas A&M men’s basketball program boosted its already impressive 2017 signing class Wednesday with the addition of Jay Jay Chandler, a highly-touted guard from Katy, Texas.
“Jay Jay is an elite athlete who can play both guard spots,” Texas A&M head coach Billy Kennedy said. “His ability to score in transition and defend at a high level improves our team. I'm pleased to add another high character kid that's excited to be an Aggie.”
A consensus four-star prospect, Chandler is regarded as the eighth-best recruit in the state of Texas by ESPN. The 6-foot-4 guard was named Class 6A All-State by the Texas Association of Basketball Coaches after leading the Cougars in scoring at 19.4 points per contest as a junior. He also averaged 7.2 rebounds, 3.5 assists and 2.5 steals per game while shooting 49 percent from the field last season.
Under the direction of head coach Neil King, Cinco Ranch compiled a 27-6 overall record during the 2016-17 season to capture the 6A District 19 Championship with Chandler standing out as the district’s most valuable player.
After playing in just 19 varsity games as a freshman, Chandler burst onto the Houston-area basketball scene during his second prep season in 2014-15 by averaging 12.2 points, 2.5 assists and 2.0 steals per contest to garner All- District 19-6A honors.
Chandler drew attention from a long list of schools from across the country before choosing Texas A&M over Arkansas, Alabama, Baylor, Georgia, Georgia Tech, Memphis, Virginia Tech and Western Kentucky among others.
Aggie Hoops Inks Elite Big Man Isiah Jasey
COLLEGE STATION, Texas – Texas A&M head coach Billy Kennedy confirmed Wednesday morning the addition of four-star prospect Isiah Jasey Killeen, Texas (Sunrise Christian [Wichita, Kan.]) to the Aggies' 2017 recruiting class.
“Isiah is a guy we’ve been recruiting for a long time,” Kennedy said. “He’s coming from one of the top programs in the country in Sunrise Christian, which plays a national schedule. He’s got a great ability to rebound above the rim and his toughness around the basket will make an instant impact on the court for us.”
Jasey is regarded as a four-star recruit by ESPN, which slots him as the eighth-best prospect in the Lone Star State. The 6-foot-9 center is considered an immediate impact player on the defensive end with his ability to rebound and block shots.
He played two years at Killeen Ellison High School before taking a spot at the Sunrise Christian Academy in Wichita, Kan., where he averaged 10 points and eight rebounds last season.
"Isiah has a tremendous motor and his work ethic is special," Sunrise Prep Luke Barnwell told Scout.com’s Brian Snow, "He is a high-level athlete and his immediate impact will be felt defensively blocking shots and rebounding. I think Isiah is just scratching the surface offensively and he will continue to get better."
In AAU competition, Jasey played in the EYBL Nike League with Houston Hoops where he averaged 6.6 points and 5.8 rebounds per game while shooting 55 percent from the floor. He chose Texas A&M over Baylor, Oklahoma and Texas among others.
Talented Guard T.J. Starks Signs with Texas A&M
COLLEGE STATION, Texas – T.J. Starks, a touted 6-foot-2 guard from Lancaster High School, has become the latest addition to the Texas A&M men's basketball team's highly-ranked 2017 recruiting class.
“T.J. is another in a long line of tough Dallas guards to join our program,” Texas A&M head coach Billy Kennedy said. “He’s a very physical player who can play at the point or off the ball and call really score by getting into the paint or from the 3-point line. He also has a chance to be a great defensive player because of his toughness and athleticism.”
Described as an attacking, offensive-minded point guard, Starks is regarded as a four-star prospect by 247 Sports, Rivals and Scout with Scout regarding him as the top point guard prospect in the state of Texas.
Last season, Starks helped guide Lancaster High School to its second consecutive UIL 5A State Championship, scoring 20 points during the title-clinching victory over Fort Bend Elkins. For his entire junior season, Starks averaged 12 points, eight rebounds and three assists per game for the Tigers.
In AAU competition, Starks starred for the Urban DFW Elite squad were he averaged 14.7 points per contest.
After drawing attention from many schools on the recruiting trail, Starks signed with Texas A&M over Oklahoma among other schools.
Jason Howell interviewed Starks and Lancaster head coach Ferrin Douglas after the signing ceremony.
Savion Flagg signs NLI, will attend Texas A&M
The Texas A&M men's basketball program has announced the signing of highly-regarded guard/forward Savion Flagg from Alvin High School.
“Savion is a versatile athlete who can play any position on the perimeter,” Texas A&M head coach Billy Kennedy said. “He’s a great passer and has an ability to score as well as make the guys he’s playing with better. His size and athleticism will give him the chance to impact our program right away.”
A member of ESPN’s elite Top 100 list, Flagg is regarded as a consensus four-start prospect who is rated as the fourth best prospect in the state of Texas by ESPN as well as the 73rd overall prospect nationally. Additionally, he is regarded as the 55th recruit nationally by Scout and No. 57 by Rivals.
Flagg is entering his senior season at Alvin where he plays for head coach John Oliverio. As a junior last season he averaged just under a double-double, averaging 17.7 points and 9.9 rebounds per outing to earn first-team All-District 22-6A accolades. A prolific scorer throughout his high school career, Flagg averaged 17.9 points per game as a sophomore and 14.1 points as a freshman in 2013-14.
In AAU competition, Flagg played with the Houston Defenders before choosing Texas A&M over Baylor, Florida, LSU, Oregon, Texas and Virginia Tech among others.
Interviews with Flagg, his parents and his head coach can be found at this link.
Women's Basketball Official Release:
Women's Basketball signs three to NLIs
Texas A&M women's basketball announced the signing of three student-athletes, N'dea Jones (Lawrenceville, Ga.), Jada Walton (Lithonia, Ga.) and Kayla Wells (Grand Prairie, Texas) to National Letters of Intent on Wednesday. ESPN HoopGurlz ranks the Aggies' class as the No. 13 class in the nation.
"We have signed three young ladies that fit well at Texas A&M, and develop into impact players during their Aggie careers," said Texas A&M head coach Gary Blair. "All three are outstanding students, and have been well coached by their high school and summer programs. My staff and I are extremely excited about these three young ladies as they are the total package—competitive athletes, solid students, and well-coached players, while competing as a high level student-athletes."
"The early signing period brings a breath of fresh air into the program, as it gives you a glimpse of the future of a program while you coach the present and build off the success of the past," added Blair.
N'dea Jones is an ESPNU HoopGurlz four-star recruit, who ranks as the No. 17 forward and the No. 80 player overall in the recruiting class. Jones averaged 17.7 points, 13.9 rebounds and four blocks for Brookwood High School in 2015-16, earning Region Co-Player of the Year honors from the Gwinnett Daily Post and All-State honors from the Atlanta Journal-Constitution and the Georgia Athletic Coaches Association.
Jones, a 6-2 forward, already is a member of her school's 1,000-point and 1,000-rebound club, and ranks in the career top 10 in points, second in rebounds, and the career leader in blocks with a full season remaining. In addition, she holds her school's single-game records with 28 rebounds and 15 blocked shots. She is a three-time all-region selection, and a two-time all-state selection. The Lawrenceville, Ga. native also plays middle blocker for Brookwood's volleyball team and plays flute in the marching band.
Jones plays her AAU basketball for the Atlanta-based Team Elite.
"N'dea is a long athletic post that has a fantastic transition game that is well-suited for the SEC," said Blair. "She has excellent timing for shot blocking and the ability to attack the basket. I love the fact she can stretch the defense with her outside shot. N'dea will provide another dimension to our already solid front court."
Kayla Wells is an ESPNU HoopGurlz four-star recruit, who ranks as the No. 25 guard and the No. 89 player overall in the signing class. A 6-0 guard who ranks as the No. 10 prospect in Texas according to Joey Simmons in Dave Campbell's Texas Basketball magazine, she averaged 16.2 points as a junior in 2015-16 for South Grand Prairie High School, earning District 8-6A Offensive Player of the Year and All-Region I honors from the TABC. A three-year starter, she has helped the Warriors to a 71-31 record in that span, earning a First Team All-District 8-6A nod as a junior. Kayla was noted as an "on the rise player" by Dan Olson of ESPN HoopGurlz.
"Kayla is a versatile small forward that has tremendous upside," said Blair. "She explodes to the rim and can score from anywhere with a deadly jumper. We've known Kayla and her family for a long time, and we are ecstatic about her decision to be an Aggie, and attend her dream school of Texas A&M."
Jada Walton is a 5-9 guard from Lithonia, Ga., who ranks as the No. 30 guard and is an ESPNU HoopGurlz three-star recruit. Walton helped Southwest DeKalb to the 2016 Georgia 5A State Title, while averaging 12.4 points, 4.7 rebounds and 2.1 assists to earn All-Metro honors from the Atlanta Journal-Constitution. Overall, Walton has helped Southwest DeKalb to a 79-17 record in the three years she has started. As a junior, Walton averaged 13.6 points, 6.3 rebounds, 1.5 assists and 2.2 steals, also earning All-Metro honors from the Atlanta Journal-Constitution. Walton also plays for Southwest DeKalb's lacrosse team and runs cross country.
Walton played her AAU basketball for the Douglasville Lady Tigers, the same AAU team that current Texas A&M sophomore Anriel Howard played for.
"Jada is an off the charts athletic guard that will flourish in our defensive and offensive system," said Blair. "Offensively, she can create well off the bounce and can play all guard positions. Jada fell in love with Texas A&M the moment she arrived. She has the personality and the style of play that will excite Aggie fans."
Women’s Basketball Signs Nation’s No. 6 Recruit, Chennedy Carter
Texas A&M women’s basketball team has announced the signing of Chennedy Carter (Mansfield, Texas) to a National Letter of Intent. The No. 6 ranked player in the 2017 recruiting class by espnW HoopGurlz, Carter is the highest-ranked women’s basketball player to sign with Texas A&M out of high school.
Carter, who was named the top recruit in Texas by Premier Basketball Report, is a 5-7 guard who plays for Mansfield Timberview High School. In addition to being the No. 6 player in the nation, she ranks as the No. 2 point guard and as a five-star recruit, according to espnW HoopGurlz. Carter is a consensus top 10 recruit, and ranks as high as third in the nation by the All-Star Girls’ Report.
“Chennedy will continue the legacy of great point guards that have played at Texas A&M,” said Aggie head coach Gary Blair. “Chennedy is a scoring point guard who can create on her own, with an explosive first step and the strength to get to the rim. She also can shoot the 3-pointer and get to the free throw line. She is an impact recruit on the national level.”
Carter becomes the highest-ranked player in the espnW HoopGurlz rankings to sign with Texas A&M out of high school, besting Karla Gilbert’s No. 9 ranking from the 2010 class. Former Texas A&M All-American Kelsey Bone was the No. 2 recruit in the 2009 class, but transferred to Aggieland after her freshman year.
Over the summer, she played with the United States’ U18 National Team, helping the USA to a gold medal at the FIBA Americas U18 Championship averaging 11.8 points, 2.8 rebounds and 3.6 assists in the tournament, while shooting 62.2 percent from the field. She was the United States’ second-leading scorer, and finished the tournament ranked eighth in both points per game and assists per game.
A TABC All-State selection in 2015-16, she averaged 18.7 points, 5.5 rebounds, 3.2 assists and 3.0 rebounds and helped Timberview to a 33-1 record and the regional semifinals. Carter is coached by Timberview head coach Kit Martin, who was an assistant coach to Blair at Arkansas from 1994-96.
After being named to the American Family Insurance ALL-USA Team by USA Today Sports during the preseason, she started the early part of the 2016-17 season by scoring 40 points to snap defending state and national champion Duncanville’s 42-game win streak on Nov. 8.
Carter played AAU for DFW Elite, the same club that has produced Aggies such as Sydney Carter, Skylar Collins, Kristen Grant, Ashlaa Horton, Chelsea Jennings, Jordan Jones, Takia Starks and Courtney Walker.
Carter joins N’dea Jones (Lawrenceville, Ga.), Jada Walton (Lithonia, Ga.) and Kayla Wells (Grand Prairie, Texas) as members of Texas A&M’s recruiting class, who will enroll in time for the 2017-18 season. The Aggies’ recruiting class currently ranks 16th nationally according to espnW HoopGurlz, but the ranking is expected to rise with the addition of Carter.
2017 Texas A&M Recruiting Class (Joins Team For 2017-18 Season):
Chennedy Carter – 5-7 – Point Guard – Mansfield, Texas – Timberview HS
N’dea Jones – 6-2 – Forward – Lawrenceville, Ga. – Brookwood HS
Jada Walton – 5-9 – Guard – Lithonia, Ga. – Southwest DeKalb HS
Kayla Wells – 6-0 – Guard – Grand Prairie, Texas – South Grand Prairie HS
Men's Golf Official Release:
Aggie Men’s Golf Inks Trio of Impressive Golfers
College Station, Texas. – Texas A&M men's golf head coach J.T. Higgins announced the signing of a trio of standout golfers, Dan Erickson, Walker Lee and Reese Ramsey, to National Letters of Intent on Wednesday. Erickson will be eligible to join the Aggies for the upcoming spring semester while Lee and Ramsey are set to arrive for the fall of 2017.
“This is another great class for us” Higgins said. “All three of these young men have won at the highest levels of junior golf, have shown the ability to make a lot of birdies and post low scores and will come to Texas A&M ready to compete for a spot in our lineup the first day of class. And they are good enough to do it! Dan, Walker and Reese are everything we are looking for in our players: talented, hard-working, tough and competitive. On top of that, they are outstanding young men who are great additions to our university and community. We are proud of our newest Aggies."
---
Dan Erickson
6-1 • 150 lbs
Whittier, Calif. (Laurel Springs High School)
Quick Notes:
• Junior Golf Scoreboard Rankings (Class of ’17)
- No. 3 player in California
- No. 10 player in the U.S.
• Golf Instructors Bobby Lasken and Rick Sessinghaus
• 2015 Los Angeles City Junior Champion (11-under par)
• 2015 Southern California Golf Association Match Play Champion
• 2016 PGA Junior Series Champion at Penn State (13-under par)
• Finished second at the 2016 Southern California Amateur (15-under par)
• Finished second at the 2016 Southern California Match Play Championship
• Has carded four top-10 finishes in American Junior Golf Association (AJGA) Events
• Finished sixth place at the 2013 Florida High School State Championship as a freshman
• Recorded seventh place showing at 2015 Southern Junior Championship
• Represented California in the 2016 USGA Men’s Team Championship
• Shares course record of 62 with Tiger Woods at Hacienda Golf Club in Whittier, Calif.
Higgins on Erickson:
“Dan is establishing himself as one of the best players in the nation. He not only competes well at the junior level but against strong amateur competition as well. He has had great coaching from Bobby Lasken and Rick Sessinghaus, and that coupled with his terrific work ethic and experience has prepared him as well as anyone to compete at the highest levels of collegiate and amateur golf. Dan plays with tremendous composure and has the ability to make a lot of birdies and shoot low scores. He is a winner and a terrific young man who will be a great addition to our squad.”
Erickson on Signing with Texas A&M:
“The number one reason I chose Texas A&M was to compete for and win a National Championship. The academics are fantastic and a degree from Texas A&M will give me a lot of opportunities for a successful career besides golf. The coaches, facilities and players all tie into why I believe it is the best option in all of college golf.”
---
Walker Lee
5-11 • 165 lbs
Houston, Texas
Quick Notes:
• Junior Golf Scoreboard Rankings (Class of ’17):
- No. 2 player in the state of Texas
- No. 18 player nationally
• 2016 American Junior Golf Association (AJGA) All-American
• Member of the 2015 Jackie Burke Cup Team
• Earned medalist honors at the 2016 PGA Junior Series Champion at The Air Force Academy
• Individual champion at the 2013 AJGA Harvey Penick Invitational
• Runner-up at both the 2013 AJGA David Toms Invitational and 2015 AJGA Patrick Reed Invitational
• Has carded eight wins on the Texas Junior Golf Tour and two on the Texas Legends Junior Golf Tour
• Holds three course records
- Champions Golf Club – Cypress Creek (Houston, TX) – 62
- Eisenhower Golf Club (Colorado Springs, CO) – 63
- Owatonna Country Club (Owatonna, MN) – 64
Higgins on Lee:
“It is finally official – Walker is an Aggie! I’m not sure who is more excited about that – me, him or his entire family. He comes from a line of Aggie Golfers and because of that, we have known him since he was knee high. We have seen him grow up to become not only one of the best golfers in the country but a terrific young man. Walker’s potential is unlimited. He learned the game from his father and uncles but has also received great instruction from Kevin Kirk in The Woodlands. He is a throwback; a shot-maker who works the ball both ways, controls his trajectory and spin and plays fearless golf. He reminds us a lot of Chandler Phillips in both style and attitude. He is ultra-competitive and can post some seriously low scores. He has the ability to make an immediate impact on our team and we are happy to finally, officially welcome him to the Aggie Family.”
Lee on Signing with Texas A&M:
“I am coming to A&M because I like the school, coaches and practice facilities. With the courses we get to play and the practice facility, there is no excuse to not be as good as you want to be. Combine that with a great team and I have a lot to look forward to. ”
---
Reese Ramsey
6-1 • 175 lbs
Austin, Texas (Westlake High School)
Quick Notes:
• Junior Golf Scoreboard Rankings (Class of ’17)
- No. 1 player in Texas
- No. 9 player in the U.S.
• Plays at Austin’s Westlake High School for Coach Callen Nokes
• Helped lead WHS to 2014 State Championship and two other top three showings at state tournament
• Golf Instructor Ann Marie Gildersleeve at Austin Country Club
• 2016 American Junior Golf Association (AJGA) All-American
• Three-time UIL Class 6A All-State Golf Team honoree (2014-16)
• 2016 UIL Class 6A Academic All State
• Individual medalist at the 2015 Hale Irwin Colorado Junior
• Has played in two US Junior Amateur Championships (2015 and 2016)
• Fifth place at 2015 US Junior Amateur Championship during stroke play; Fell in Round of 32
• Finished sixth at 2016 Junior PGA Championship
• Finished in 10th place 2016 Western Junior Championship
• Runner up at 2015 Lockton Kansas City Junior, 2014 Will Claxton Junior, 2014 Midwest Junior Players Championship and 2013 AJGA Junior All-Star
• Has carded 4 other AJGA Top-10 finishes
• Holds course record (61) at Common Ground Golf Club in Denver, Colo. The 61 also ties for the lowest round in AJGA history
Higgins on Ramsey:
“Reese is another young man we have known for a long time. He came to our first-ever golf camp and it has been fun to watch him develop into an outstanding golfer and young man over the years. Reese is mature and thoughtful – on and off the course. He is an all-around good player. He has great fundamentals, hits it well, can chip and putt and he plays really smart. He has worked with Ann Marie Gildersleeve since he was six and they have done an amazing job together. He plays for one of the best high school programs in the state of Texas. Year in and year out, Coach Nokes has them competing for the state championship and that is always nice to bring in a player who is already a part of a winning program. Reese is a welcome addition to the Aggie Family.”
Ramsey on Signing with Texas A&M:
“I decided on Texas A&M because of the great coaches, fantastic practice facilities and the awesome campus atmosphere. It is a big bonus to have all of these aspects and be at an SEC school at the same time.”
Women's Golf Official Release:
Aggie Women's Golf signs four to NLIs
Texas A&M’s women’s golf team announced the signing of four student-athletes, Elizabeth Caldarelli (Scottsdale, Ariz.), Morgan Lay (Austin, Texas), Amber Park (Allen, Texas) and Ariana Saenz (Porter, Texas), to National Letters of Intent on Wednesday. All four have helped their schools to high school state titles.
“I am excited to welcome these four outstanding young ladies to our program,” said Texas A&M head coach Trelle McCombs. “All four of these young ladies are going to contribute to our program, both on and off the course.”
Elizabeth Caldarelli is the reigning state champion in Arizona, and the No. 3 ranked player in the 2017 recruiting class out of Arizona, according to Golfweek’s rankings. She has helped Xavier Prep to the last three of the school’s six straight state titles, and helped Xavier Prep extend its 220+ dual-match winning streak, a national high school record. Caldarelli won the state championship as an individual this fall by shooting a 2-under 70 in the rain-shortened event, improving from an 11th place finish as a sophomore and a 19th place finish as a junior.
Morgan Lay is the No. 47 ranked player in the 2017 recruiting class, and the No. 5 player in the state of Texas according to Golfweek. Lay helped Lake Travis HS to the 2015 and 2016 Texas 6A State Titles, finishing ninth at the 2016 championship. As a junior, Lay averaged 73.94 strokes per round, and finished in the Top 10 of every tournament she played. She was a school winner and a state nominee for the Wendy’s High School Heisman in 2016.
Amber Park is the No. 19 ranked player in the 2017 recruiting class and the No. 2 player in Texas according to Golfweek. Park, along with current Texas A&M golfer Maddie Szeryk, helped Allen to the 2014 state title, and to top 5 finishes at the state tournament in 2015 and 2016. Individually, she has finished 16th-or-better in all three of her appearances in the state tournament.
Ariana Saenz is the No. 44 ranked player in the 2017 recruiting class and the No. 4 ranked player in Texas, according to Golfweek. She helped Kingwood Park to the 2015 and 2016 Texas 5A State Championships, finishing third individually as a junior in 2016. Saenz posted a 71.67 stroke average as a junior, finishing in the Top 10 of every tournament she played, and winning two, including the District 21-5A Championship. As a sophomore, she averaged 74.89 strokes per round, finishing in second in District 21-5A. She also finished sixth nationally at the 2015 Drive, Chip and Putt Championships in Augusta, Ga.
2017 Signing Class
Elizabeth Caldarelli – Scottsdale, Ariz. – Xavier Prep HS
Morgan Lay – Austin, Texas – Lake Travis HS
Amber Park – Allen, Texas – Allen HS
Ariana Saenz – Porter, Texas – Kingwood Park HS
Softball Official Release
Texas A&M Softball Inks Seven from Class of 2017
Texas A&M softball signed seven student-athletes to National Letters of Intent, head coach Jo Evans announced Friday. The signees will join the program in the fall of 2017.
Signing NLIs are Dani Elder (League City, Texas), Maddie MacGrandle (Frisco, Texas), Hannah Mayo (Corpus Christi, Texas), Gabby Moreno (Montgomery, Texas), Randi Carol Phillips (Jefferson, Texas), Kayla Poynter (Loganville, Ga.) and Abby Smith (Prosper, Texas).
“We are excited about our 2017 signing class,” head coach Jo Evans said. “We bring in a lot of depth on the pitching mound with Kayla Poynter, Maddie MacGrandle, Hannah Mayo, and Randi Carol Phillips. Each pitcher has a different skill set than the other and they will be a great complement to our current pitching staff. Dani Elder and Abby Smith give us depth behind the plate and Gabby Moreno gives us versatility in the infield and outfield. Poynter, MacGrandle, Smith, and Moreno, all hit for power, while Dani Elder is a gap-to-gap hitter. This is an outstanding group of young women; high achievers in the classroom and high character people. They will be a great addition to our program.”
Elder, who is ranked No. 44 in FloSoftball’s Top 100 for 2017, was named first team all-district and second team all-county as a junior last season. As a sophomore, the catcher and third baseman helped lead Clear Springs High School to their first playoff appearance in school history, while being named second team all-district and all-county honorable mention. In 2014, she was named district newcomer of the year. Playing for Impact Gold, Elder finished first at the 2013 ASA Nationals (14U), 2012 Triple Crown Ronald McDonald (14U) and placed third at Triple Crown Fireworks (18U Gold). In 2016 with Sudden Impact, Elder finished third at Triple Crown Nationals (18U Gold).
The 2016 Gatorade Texas Softball Player of the Year, MacGrandle led Frisco High School to the state tournament for the first time in 14 years last season, posting a 31-3 record while pitching all but two innings the entire season. MacGrandle helped Frisco to a perfect 16-0 mark during the District 9-5A schedule and struck out 393 batters in 213 innings. Offensively, the left-handed pitcher and first baseman hit .546 with 10 homeruns and 57 RBI. MacGrandle was named a First Team NFCA High School All-American, Second Team MaxPreps All-American, Texas Sports Writers Association Class 5A Player of the Year and Texas Girls Coaches Association First Team All-State. The Dallas News All Metro Player of the Year was also selected to the USA Today All-USA Second Team. As a sophomore, MacGrandle was named District 9-5A MVP, Dallas Morning News First Team All-Area and a FloSoftball Second Team All-American after striking out 293 in 175.1 innings. MacGrandle led Texas Glory Gold to top-five finishes in Colorado and at the DeMarini Invitational as well as a second place finish at the World Fastpitch Championships. MacGrandle, a member of National Honor Society, will graduate in the top-10 percent of her class.
A member of the 2016 South Texas Softball Pre-Season All-Stars, Mayo was named a District 8-6A and All South Texas Softball Second Team Pitcher. As a sophomore, Mayo was named to the TSWA All-State Softball Honorable Mention as well as the First Team All South Texas Softball pitcher. In 2014, Mayo was named the All South Texas Softball and District 28-5A Newcomer of the Year. Mayo has been a member of the academic all-district team from 2014-16.
A four-year starter for Montgomery High School, Moreno was a 2016 6A First Team All-County and second team all-district infielder after batting .457 with six homeruns, seven doubles and a triple. As a freshman, Moreno belted eight homers and a grand slam, four triples, 10 doubles and drove in 41 RBI with a .398 average. Moreno was named co-offensive player of the year and first team all-district, as well as 4A State Honorable Mention. Moreno and the Firecrackers HTX won the 2016 Colorado Fireworks 18 Open Bracket and finished second at the 2015 Triple Crown Southwest Nationals. In 2015, Moreno was ranked No. 95 in FloSoftball’s Hot 100 Recruits. Moreno holds a 4.1 GPA, is ranked fourth in her class and is a member of the National Honor Society and Spanish National Honor Society.
Randi Carol Phillips was named the 2016 Best Preps Player of the Year and District 17-AA MVP while also being named to the TSWA and TGCA First Team All-State for the third consecutive year. In 2015, Phillips was given the Bomber Way Award and was tabbed the 17-AA Pitcher of the Year and First Team All East Texas. As a freshman, Phillips was named the District 18-A Newcomer of the Year. A member of Harlton High School’s cross country team, Phillips was named the Wendy’s High School Heisman Recipient and qualified for regionals in 2013-14. Phillips also plays basketball and is a member of Future Business Leaders of America, Student Council and National Honor Society.
A native Loganville, Ga., Kayla Poynter helped lead Walnut Grove High School the 5A State Championship Game last season and was named the 5A Region 8 Pitcher of the Year. The Georgia Dugout Club All-State Player was also named the MaxPreps/NFCA Player of the Week for September 19-25. As a junior, Poynter was named the 4A All-State and Region 4 Pitcher of the Year, while leading her team to the 4A Region 4 Championship and State Championship Game. In 2015, Poynter was named the 4A Region 4 Pitcher of the Year and was a member of the 4A Region 8 First Team as a freshman.
A catcher and first baseman from Prosper, Texas, Abby Smith was named the District 10-5A Offensive MVP and earned the Dallas Morning News “Barry Bonds” Award. As a sophomore, Smith was named first team all-district and first team all-area catcher, leading Prosper High to the 5A Texas State playoff. The two-time Dallas Morning News Player of the Week was also named all-state honorable mention at catcher. Smith was named first team all-district and the team’s MVP as a freshman. With Texas Glory Gold, Smith finished second at the USSSA World Fastpitch Championships and third at the DeMarini Invitational. A Student Council class representative, Smith was named academic all-district in 2015 and 2016.
Baseball Official Release:
Aggies Ink 13 Signees for 2018 Campaign
COLLEGE STATION, Texas – Texas A&M Baseball received certification on National Letters of Intent and appropriate paperwork for 13 newcomers for the 2018 season, including 10 of the top high school student-athletes in the nation, two elite junior college transfers and one of Canada’s top prep players, head coach Rob Childress announced on Friday.
“We’re extremely excited about the 2017 class,” Texas A&M head coach Rob Childress said. “I feel like Justin Seely is one of the best recruiting coordinators in the country and he and Coach (Will) Bolt put together another amazing class. They are all the type of players who can make an immediate impact.”
Ten of the 13 players hail from the state of Texas, including RHP Jack Conlon (Sugar Land/Clement), OF/RHP Zach DeLoach (Lewisville/Hebron), Tylor Fischer (Houston/Langham Creek), Will Frizzell (Rockwall/Rockwall), Cam Haller (Marshall/Marshall), Asa Lacy (Kerrville/Tivy), Christian Roa (Houston/Memorial), Dustin Saenz (Corpus Christi/Memorial), Alex Scherff (Colleyville/Grapevine) and Aaron Walters (Kerrville/Center Point).
The Aggies also inked a pair of junior college transfers, both who originate from Lincoln, Nebraska via Hutchinson Community College in Kansas. The pair includes INF Michael Helman and RHP Nolan Hoffman.
The final member of the class hails from Canada with INF Adam Hall signed from London, Ontario.
“With the position players it’s a class with a lot of strength and speed,” Childress said. “On the pitching side of things, we have some power righties and left-handers who know how to pitch with above average arm strength. It’s a very talented class that is among the top 20 in the country.”
Texas A&M opens its 2017 season on Feb. 17-19 when the Aggies host Bowling Green at Blue Bell Park for a three-game series.
2016-17 Texas A&M Baseball signing class (as of November 11, 2016)
Jack Conlon – RHP – 6-4, 210, R/R - Sugar Land, Texas (Clements HS)
Zach DeLoach – OF/RHP – 6-1, 195, L/R – Lewisville, Texas (Hebron HS)
Tylor Fischer – RHP – 6-4, 175, R/R – Houston, Texas (Langham Creek HS)
Will Frizzell - 1B – 6-5, 220, L/R - Rockwall, Texas (Rockwall HS)
Adam Hall – INF – 6-0, 180, R/R – London, Ontario, Canada (A.B. Lucas Secondary School)
Cam Haller - C – 5-10, 200, R/R - Marshall, Texas (Marshall HS)
Michael Helman – INF – 6-0, 190, R/R – Lincoln, Nebraska (Pius X HS/Hutchinson JC)
Nolan Hoffman – RHP – 6-3, 195, R/R – Lincoln, Nebraska (Southeast HS/Hutchinson JC)
Asa Lacy - LHP – 6-4, 200, L/L – Kerrville, Texas (Tivy HS)
Christian Roa – RHP – 6-3, 190, R/R – Houston, Texas (Memorial HS)
Dustin Saenz – LHP – 5-10, 180, L/L – Corpus Christi, Texas (King HS)
Alex Scherff – RHP – 6-2, 195, R/R – Colleyville, Texas (Grapevine HS)
Aaron Walters - C – 6-0, 195, L/R - Kerrville, Texas (Center Point HS)
............................
Jack Conlon – RHP – 6-4, 210, R/R - Sugar Land, Texas (Clements HS)
• Summer Team: Twelve
• All-District 23-6A Second Team in 2016
• Academic All-District 23-6A as a junior
• Notched a 1.56 ERA and 27 strikeouts in 22.1 innings in 2016
• 2015 Perfect Game Underclass 2nd Team All-American
• 2016 Perfect Game Underclass 1st Team All-American
• Earned Top 10 honors in his age group at the 2015 Under Armour All-America Pre-Season Tournament
• 2015 Under Armour Futures Texas Showcase
• 2016 Under Armour All-America Game
• Selected to play for the Texas Rangers Area Code Team in 2016
Quote from recruiting coordinator Justin Seely: Jack has long been considered one of the guys with the best stuff in the state and country. His pitchability has made big strides over the past two years because of his work habits and commitment to the game. With continued improvement of command, Jack could push for lots of innings as a freshman.
Zach DeLoach – OF/RHP – 6-1, 195, L/R – Lewisville, Texas (Hebron HS)
• 2016 Class 6A All-State First Team by Texas High School Baseball Coaches Association
• 2016 TWSA Class 6A All-State Third Team as outfielder and Honorable Mention as a pitcher
• Named 2016 District 6-6A MVP
• 2015 All-District 6-6A
• Named Newcomer of the Year for District 5-5A in 2014
• Summer Team: Dallas Tigers
• 2016 Perfect Game Underclass 2nd Team All-American
• 2015 Perfect Game Underclass High Honorable Mention All-American
• 2016 Texas Rangers Area Code team
• Posted a 9-3 record with a 0.65 ERA and 108 strikeouts over 75.0 innings in 2016; batted .416 with 28 RBI
Quote from recruiting coordinator Justin Seely: Zach has been and continues to be one of the best hitters and athletes in his age group. His ability to impact the game as a hitter, base runner, defender and even on the mound make him an elite player. With all that being said, his best attribute may be his competitive nature.
Tylor Fischer – RHP – 6-4, 175, R/R – Houston, Texas (Langham Creek HS)
• 2016 Perfect Game Underclass 1st Team All-American
• Ranked 37th in Texas, 286th nationally by MaxPreps
• Fischer was 6-2 with 49 K’s and an ERA of 3.12. He also hit .371 with 8 doubles, 5 triples, 4 home runs and 27 RBI in 2016. He had 13 SBs and 23 runs scored, helping Langham Creek advance to the State Tournament
• Hit for the cycle in a district game vs Cy Lakes
• All-District 17-6A First Team outfielder.
• Selected to play for the Texas Rangers Area Code Team.
• 2015 Texas Rangers Underclassmen Area Code Team
• Played summer ball for the Houston Banditos
• Led Langham Creek to the semifinals in the 2016 Class 6A State Tournament
Quote from recruiting coordinator Justin Seely: Tylor has an electric arm. He can run his fastball to 93-94 with the ability to spin the ball. From a frame and athleticism standpoint, he has everything you look for on the mound. He helped pitch and play his high school team to the state tournament last year as a junior. With some time with Coach Childress, Tylor has a chance to be a difference maker for Texas A&M.
Will Frizzell - 1B – 6-5, 220, L/R - Rockwall, Texas (Rockwall HS)
• Summer Team: Dallas Patriots Stout
• 2016 Perfect Game Underclass High Honorable Mention All-American
• 17U National Development Program Alternate
• Participant in the 2016 Under Armour Baseball Factory Team One Showcase
• Named All-District 11-6A First Team in 2016
• Earned District 11-6A Newcomer of the Year in 2015
Quote from recruiting coordinator Justin Seely: Will is a big man with power. He’s not just all-or-nothing guy. He can find the barrel. He is surprisingly agile for a guy his size, which is important. Will’s work habits and demeanor lead us to believe his best baseball is still in front of him.
Adam Hall – INF – 6-0, 180, R/R – London, Ontario, Canada (AB Lucas Secondary School)
• Summer Team: Great Lake Canadians/Canadian Junior National Team
• 2015 Perfect Game Underclass High Honorable Mention All-American
• 2016 Perfect Game Underclass 2nd Team All-American
• 2016 Yankees Area Code Games
• Participant in 2016 Perfect Game All-American Classic (only Canadian player)
Quote from recruiting coordinator Justin Seely: Adam is as advanced an offensive player as there is. He is an elite runner with great bat speed and hand-eye coordination. His athleticism translates on defense as well. He’s a tireless worker. He has played on as high of a level as anybody at his age. We believe he has a chance to impact our team from the day he steps foot on campus.
Cam Haller - C – 5-10, 200, R/R - Marshall, Texas (Marshall HS)
• 2016 Perfect Game Underclass Honorable Mention All-American
• Batted .370 with five doubles, one triple, six home runs, 24 runs and 18 RBI as a junior
• Threw out 23 of 39 attempted base stealers in 2016
• Varsity career BA .388 BA OBP .518 59 hits 41 RBIs .989 Fielding
• 2015 East Texas Varsity Best Preps Baseball First Team
• 2016 Class 5A All-State Third Team by Texas High School Baseball Coaches Association
• 2016 Texas SportsWriters Association Class 5A All-State Honorable Mention
Quote from recruiting coordinator Justin Seely: I ran across Cameron on the same day that I saw Aaron (Walters) and Tylor (Fischer). That was a good day! Cam’s strength at contact is special. He can impact the baseball like few kids I’ve seen. He also, like Aaron, shows great feel behind the plate. Cam is a special athlete with equally special make-up. He plays football at Marshall and he’s the school’s all-time leading rusher.
Michael Helman – INF – 6-0, 190, R/R – Lincoln, Nebraska (Pius X HS/Hutchinson JC)
• 2016 ABCA/Rawlings NJCAA Division I Baseball Gold Glove Team as a second baseman
• 2016 All-Jayhawk West First Team
• 2016 All-Region VI First Team
• Region VI Gold Glove selection as a second baseman
• Hit .416 with 20 doubles, 2 triples, 9 home runs, 58 RBI and 64 runs in 2016 at Hutchinson Community College
• Stole 24 bases in 25 tries and logged 30 multi-hit games
• 2014 and 2015 All-Nebraska Class B First Team
• Posted a 6-0 record with a 0.18 ERA and 45 strikeouts in 39.2 innings on the mound and hit .439 with 11 doubles, three triples, one home run and 22 RBI at the plate
• All-USA Nebraska First Team in 2015 and Second Team in 2014
• 2014 Class B State Champion
Quote from recruiting coordinator Justin Seely: Michael is versatile and athletic. He can play a number of infield positions and do it while bringing offense to the table. Michael can defend, run, hit and he can hit with occasional power. He also pitched at Hutchinson last year. His versatility and offensive game make him very valuable.
Nolan Hoffman – RHP – 6-3, 195, R/R – Lincoln, Nebraska (Southeast HS/Hutchinson JC)
• 3.06 ERA with an 8-3 record and 87 strikeouts at Hutchinson Community College in 2016
• Worked five complete games and one shutout in 2016
• 2016 All-Jayhawk Conference Second Team
• Posted 1.62 ERA and 7-1 record in 2015
• Batted .360 with over high school career
• 2015 District A5 Champions
• 2015 All-USA Nebraska First Team
• 2014 Academic All-State
Quote from recruiting coordinator Justin Seely: Nolan throws three pitches for a strike on command – any count – any time. He has plus pitchability with a mean streak on the mound. His level of attack fits with our style and makeup of our program. We feel very confident that Nolan can come in and pitch from the get-go and do it with SEC-level stuff.
Asa Lacy - LHP – 6-4, 200, L/L – Kerrville, Texas (Tivy HS)
• 2016 Perfect Game Underclass Honorable Mention All-American
• Selected All-District 27-5A Second Team in 2016
• Played for the 2016 Texas Rangers Area Code team
• Summer team: Dallas Mustangs
• Ranked 87th prospect in Texas by MaxPreps
• 2015 District 27-5A Newcomer of the Year
Quote from recruiting coordinator Justin Seely: Asa is a long, projectable body with downhill plane to his fastball. He is just scratching the surface of what he is capable of. I’m really excited to see what he and Coach Childress can do together. Every time I see Asa, he is getting better. He currently has three pitches and they all have the makings of above average pitches.
Christian Roa – RHP – 6-3, 190, R/R – Houston, Texas (Memorial HS)
• Summer Team: C2 Select
• 2016 Texas Prep Class 6A All-Houston Honorable Mention Utility Player
• 2016 All-District 18-6A First Team
• 2016 Academic All-District 18-6A
• 2015 Academic All-District 18-6A
Quote from recruiting coordinator Justin Seely: Christian commands three pitches at times and he can get above his fastball with tilt, as well. We feel like he will only get better every time he plays. 90-mile-per-hour arms that are athletic and competitive aren’t easy to find, especially with projection. Christian plays wide receiver at Memorial in the fall and he’s a good player.
Dustin Saenz – LHP – 5-10, 180, L/L – Corpus Christi, Texas (King HS)
• Summer team: Team Mizuno USA
• 2016 Perfect Game Underclass Honorable Mention All-American
• 9-1 with a 0.58 ERA and 124 strikeouts in 73.0 innings in the 2016 campaign
• Ranked second among all Class 6A pitchers with 124 strikeouts as a junior
• 2016 Class 6A All-State First Team by Texas High School Baseball Coaches Association
• 2016 6A All-State Honorable Mention by the Texas Sports Writers Association
• 2016 All-District 30-6A First Team
• 2015 All-District 28-6A First Team
• 9-1 with a 1.43 ERA in 2015
Quote from recruiting coordinator Justin Seely: Dustin was one of the leaders in the state in strikeouts. He has an extremely quick arm with feel for spin already. He can fulfill a lot of roles early in his career because of his versatility. He isn’t just a little guy that can pitch. He has great stuff, too.
Alex Scherff – RHP – 6-2, 195, R/R – Colleyville, Texas (Colleyville Heritage HS)
• Ranked #6 in 2017 MLB Top 100 Prospects
• Under Armour All-American Game participant
• 2016 All-DFW Third Team
• 2016 TAPPS 5A State Champion
• 11-0 record and a 0.75 ERA in 2016
• 2015 TAPPS 4A All-District First Team
• 2015 TAPPS 4A All-State First Team
• 11-2 record with 116 strikeouts and a 0.65 ERA in 2015
• 2014 6-5A Newcomer of the Year
Quote from recruiting coordinator Justin Seely: Alex has a power fastball that can run into the high 90s on occasion. The strength of his game really comes from his ability to throw his changeup. That pitch is what really baffles the higher level guys he has faced. Alex’s work habits and commitment to his routine and plan are on a different level than most. His success is hard-earned. There are a number of roles Alex could fit into from day one on campus because of his three pitches and attacking style on the mound.
Aaron Walters - C – 6-1, 195, L/R - Kerrville, Texas (Center Point HS)
• Summer Team: Prospects National
• 2015 Perfect Game Underclass Honorable Mention All-American
• 2016 Perfect Game Underclass High Honorable Mention All-American
• In 2016, Walters had a .539 batting average with 14 doubles, 7 home runs, 26 RBI and 27 Runs. On the mound, Walters was 7-5 with a 1.32 ERA and an amazing 160 strikeouts. Walters was selected as the 29-2A District MVP. He also made the Texas Sportswriters Association All-State Team as a Second-Team Catcher and Honorable Mention pitcher.
• In 2015, as a sophomore, Walters batted .542 with 13 doubles, 8 home runs, 49 RBI and 39 Runs. He also went 9-1 with a 0.79 ERA and 92 strikeouts. He was selected the 29-2A District MVP and made both the Texas High School Baseball Coaches Association All-State Team and the Texas Sports Writers Association All-State Team.
• As a freshman, he was the District Co-MVP and made Honorable Mention All-State.
• Selected to the 2016 Texas Rangers Area Code Team
Quote from recruiting coordinator Justin Seely: Aaron is son of a coach and the brother of Ashley Walters, who catches for Coach Evans here at Texas A&M. Aaron can flat out hit and compete. Every time we see him play, he finds the barrel. He reminds us of Cole Lankford at the same age with more strength. His feel for the game is advanced for his age. He’s a great all-around athlete and the quarterback of his high school football team.
Volleyball Official Release:
Aggie Volleyball signs four to NLIs
Texas A&M head coach Laurie Corbelli announced the signing of four heralded student-athletes to National Letters of Intent to play volleyball for the Aggies. All four signees are mentioned in PrepVolleyball.com’s top 250 list of the Class of 2017 Senior Aces, including three who are in the top 100.
“All four bring in top-level club experience, and they have been on teams that have been very successful both at the high school and club level,” Corbelli said. “They are so well trained, experienced and skilled at their individual positions and what they are being brought in to do. Whether it is middle blocking, outside hitting or setting, likely they’ll all be able to contribute very early in their careers at their positions.”
Conner is a decorated four-year starting setter at Seven Lakes High School in Katy, Texas. The lefty is No. 94 in PrepVolleyball.com’s national list of “Senior Aces” and was named to the website’s 2016 Pre-Season High School All-American Watch List. She also received American Volleyball Coaches Association (AVCA)/Under Armour All-America honorable mention.
Coached by Farah (Mensik) Holder, who also played setter for Corbelli and the Aggies from 1994-97, Conner helped lead Seven Lakes to the 2016 District 19-6A championship and a spot in the state high school regional semifinals. A four-time member of the academic all-district team and a three-year team captain, Conner was named to the Texas Girls Coaches Association Class 6A All-State first team as a junior and also was tabbed the District 19-6A setter MVP for the second consecutive year after leading the Spartans to the regional finals.
Conner has helped her club teams qualify for the USA Volleyball Girls Junior National Championships (GJNC) in three of the last four years. Last summer she was named to the USAV GJNC 17 Open Division all-tournament team while representing Houston Skyline Juniors, coached by Holly (Clay) Jones, who played for Corbelli at Texas A&M from 2002-05. Conner won a gold medal in the 2014 USAV High Performance Girl’s National Youth Division.
“Many of our fans will remember our left-handed setter, Allie Sawatzky, who did a lot of attacking, and Camille is left-handed and brings the height,” Corbelli said. “She also has been an attacker, and what stands out when watching Camille play is her intensity and her leadership. She is a great communicator and loves to be in charge on the floor, and those are great qualities for your setter. And the fact that she will be attacking a ton just opens up the offense and adds another dimension.”
Davis is a star two-sport athlete at Bishop Moore Catholic High School in Orlando, Fla., having excelled in both volleyball and basketball. Ranked No. 84 in PrepVolleyball.com’s list of “Senior Aces” and a member of the website’s All-American Watch List, Davis led the 2016 Bishop Moore volleyball team to a 32-1 record and a second consecutive state championship. Coached by Tanya Jarvis, the Hornets were No. 8 in the nation entering the state tournament, where Davis hit 1.000 in the championship match, collecting 12 kills in 12 attempts.
Davis plays club ball for Top Select Volleyball Academy, and last summer her team won the AAU national championship in the 17 Open Division and placed third at the USAV Girls Junior National Championships.
Davis, who didn’t start playing volleyball until her sophomore year of high school, is a four-year starter and two-time State of Florida District 5A Player of the Year in basketball. She received several scholarship offers to play collegiate basketball, including an offer from LSU prior to deciding to pursue volleyball.
“Morgan is one of those fiery, passionate players who is very deliberate with her training and brings a great block,” Corbelli said. “Her high school team has won state and her club team has won AAUs, so she has been on championship teams and has played major roles on championship teams. She was little bit of a late bloomer in volleyball because she was so advanced in basketball at the same time, but when she decided to play just volleyball, it was a no-brainer that she could help us. She has a great build, is really strong and has a nice arm. She is going to be really, really good.”
Patterson is a 2016-17 AVCA Under Armour First-Team All-America selection and is listed No. 97 in PrepVolleyball.com’s list of Senior Aces. A three-year starting middle blocker and four-time district champion for coach Lamar Bryant at Xavier College Preparatory in Phoenix, Patterson completed her high school career by leading the Gators to their second consecutive state runner-up finish and a No. 28 national ranking. As a junior the 6-3 middle was named all-state second team, and she earned all-state honorable mention as a sophomore.
Patterson plays club ball for Arizona Storm. Coached by Terri Spann, Patterson helped lead the team to a second place finish in the 17 Open Division at the 2015 USAV GJNC and a third place finish in the 18 Open Division at the 2016 USAV GJNC.
“Makena is a great student with an athletic background,” Corbelli said. “Her dad was a basketball player at UCLA, and she has been around sports her entire live. She is really long, has great length at the net and has a really smooth arm swing, which has become really important in recruiting because arm swings are so much of a natural thing. I love her arm swing, and she hits high, she hits hard and she plays high.”
Samantha Sanders, who led Waco Midway to a No. 1 state ranking earlier this season, is a member of PrepVolleyball.com’s 2016 Senior Aces “The 150” and she was named AVCA Under Armour All-America honorable mention. As a junior, Sanders was the 2015 District 12-6A most valuable hitter and also was a member of the Super Centex Volleyball first team. The 6-2 outside hitter also earned all-district first-team honors as a freshman and sophomore.
Sanders, who will play her final year of club ball for TAV-Dallas, previously played for Waco Juniors Volleyball Club. She was named to the all-tournament team in the 16 American Division at the 2015 national championships after leading her team to a fifth-place finish. Her Waco Juniors team also won the 15 American Division in 2014.
“Samantha definitely brings size and power,” Corbelli said. “She has a big arm swing on the outside, and she loves to go up and rip the ball. She has good vision and gets good position with the ball. She is a great team player, is very enthusiastic and very aware of her role as an outside hitter on the team and what the outside hitter needs to do. She also has a knack for the back row and is a future six-rotation player.
“All of these kids coming in are athletic and will allow us to play at a high point above the net,” Corbelli summarized. “It’s just a really complete group. If you can’t compete at the net with size, power and speed, it is going to be really difficult, and I think this group does bring the total package in terms of size, speed and power, as well as experience.
“I also like the fact that not only are they great students, but Texas A&M was a great fit for all of them.”
The Aggies will be losing five seniors at the conclusion of the 2016 season, including All-American middle blocker Jazzmin Babers, who has started every match of her career, as well as setter Kaysie Shebeneck and outside hitter Emily Hardesty.Never miss the latest news from TexAgs!
Join our free email list