Bradwell senior basketball standout DeAndre Ross, known by his teammates as Peanut, signed a scholarship Monday to play basketball for the Greensboro College Lions in North Carolina.

"I can feel my blood rushing and my heart pounding," Ross said. "It’s something I’ve always wanted to do."

Ross said his AAU Rebels coach, Terrence Alston Sr., took him to the campus where the coaches were familiar with Alston and Rebels coach Ernie Walthour’s squads.

Ross said he wants to study business administration and athletic training.

"He worked hard and I believe he deserves it," Gary Guy, Ross’ stepfather, said. He said Ross has two siblings who he hopes will follow in Ross’ footsteps.

"At first I was afraid he would not get the opportunity to play basketball, but God stepped in and made a way for him to go to school and play basketball, so I thank God for that," Ross’ mother, Alicia, said.

She said she plans to hit the road as many chances as she can to watch him play.

"We are very excited about DeAndre going to college," Walthour said of the sixth Rebels player to sign a college scholarship this year. "A lot more players are being recruited. We are making our mark now for the Rebels and we are very excited for their families."

Walthour thanked Alston for making the trip with Ross to the campus. He also thanked the St. James Sports Center for all its staff does.

"They help these young guys get an opportunity to go to college," Walthour said.

Tiger basketball coach Pete Woodard said Ross deserved a chance to play in college.

"What is most impressive about DeAndre is not only does he excel on the basketball court, he gives 100 percent, works hard and never complains. I was equally impressed by his academic skills," he said. "He is one of those rare athletes who understand you have to have success in the classroom before you have success anywhere."

The coach said Ross should do well if he maintains his work and study ethics.

"He needs to keep his confidence up and continue to believe in himself," he added.