Trendon Watford Chooses LSU

MOUNTAIN BROOK, AL - The most anticipated college basketball signing in the state - and possibly the country - is official. Mountain Brook's Trendon Watford announced Monday he will play basketball at LSU next season.

Watford, the five-star recruit, three-time state champion and two-time Mr. Basketball in Alabama, , had narrowed his college choices down to Alabama, Indiana, LSU and Memphis. Watford said in a press conference at MBHS Monday he chose LSU after a long deliberation. He said the biggest factor was the trust he has in the LSU coaching staff.

Watford said he was an Alabama fan, and had been recruited by former Alabama coach Avery Johnson, and implied that Johnson's departure after this past season played a factor in Watford's decision.

"This was one of the toughest decisions I have ever had to make," Watford said. "But I am happy to say I will be playing basketball at Louisiana State University."

The 6'8" power forward was sought by dozens of schools, and narrowed his choices down early, but the announcement of his final decision had been put on hold. Watford said he made the decision roughly a week before Monday's announcement.

Watford finished his career at Mountain Brook with 3,567 points, ranking among the top 10 in AHSAA history, and set a new AHSAA career record with 1,909 career rebounds.

Watford said he will report to Baton Rouge June 5.