Both Teel (above) and Thompson were joined by family and friends when they signed their letter of intent on Thursday. (Photos by Irmy Fonville)

Staff Report
(Nov. 13, 2009)

Reed Teel admitted that he had never attended a basketball game at Harding University.

But the reputation of Bison basketball games precludes them.

Teel will be a part of the Bison basketball program next year. The senior guard at Alabama Christian Academy signed a letter of intent with the school at a special ceremony on Thursday.

Another ACA athlete, Will Thompson, also signed a scholarship with the Troy University golf team on Thursday.

Teel, who averaged 19.6 points and six assists per game last season, was excited that he was going to a program that has the support that rivals some of college basketball’s most popular fans.

“I watched a video on YouTube and saw how crazy it is there. They are known as the Duke of Division II,” Teel said. “They really get into the games and call out opposing players. It looks like a lot of fun and I am looking forward to being a part of it.”

Teel considered staying close to home, following his parents’ footsteps to Faulkner or to Auburn Montgomery where is brother Drew is a student assistant coach under Larry Chapman.

But he chose to go his own way and begin a new tradition at Harding, which is located in Searcy, Arkansas.

“I’ve gotten a lot of encouragement to do what is best for me and I think Harding gives me the best opportunity,” he said. “I had other opportunities but this was the best fit.”

Thompson consistently led the ACA golf team last season and expects to contend for individual honors in Class 4A later in the spring.