California Redwood Joins SAGU Bucketers

Southwestern signs Gabriel Clark

WAXAHACHIE, Texas -- The Southwestern Assemblies of God University men's basketball team has been active in recent weeks. Over the holidays the Lions reeled in Gabriel Clark, a center and power forward that could be a big benefit in the area the squad needs the most help – rebounding.

Clark is a 6-foot-8, 240 pound native of Modesto, a northern California city in the region of the giant redwood trees. He played his high school ball as member of the Modesto H.S. "Panthers," where he averaged a triple double as a senior. He set their record for blocked shots in a game with 18.

"He gives us a solid presence on the interior," said SAGU Head Coach Jerry Boone. "We're very pleased to welcome him to our squad. He will be a strong addition and he has two more years of eligibility after this one."

The sophomore, who was recruited by new Assistant Coach Jimmie Williams, was attending Weatherford College, near Fort Worth.

"Gabe is a player we feel confident will help our ball club," said Coach Williams. "He's good on the boards and will affect the way our opponents shoot the ball. Besides that, he's a great guy. He should be a compliment as a student on our campus as well."

Blessed with a wingspan of 73 inches, Clark's ability to swat opponent's shots earned him the prep nickname, "Helicopter."

The Lions' rebounding game can use the lift. While they rank nationally in several offensive categories, SAGU is last in the Red River Athletic Conference in many rebounding statistics despite having the NAIA's leader in boards per game (Nathaniel Duce Ward).