June 21, 2005

MONTGOMERY, Ala. - The Alabama State men's basketball team announced its signing class for the 2005-06 season on Tuesday, adding three players - Marcus Caesar, Andree Hayles, and Brian Campbell - the Hornets hope will help lead them to another run for the Southwestern Athletic Conference championship.

"We were looking for guys who were ready to play a more uptempo style and be able to get after it on defense," ASU head coach Lewis Jackson said. "They'll have to adapt more to the college game but I feel they'll learn a lot when they get here. It'll be exciting."

Caesar is a 6-foot-6, 230-pound power forward from Chabot Community College in Hayward, Calif. He was a first team all-conference selection both seasons, averaging almost 15 points and 6.5 rebounds during his run with the Gladiators. He will have two more seasons of eligibility remaining.

"Marcus can play (both forward) positions. In losing Kevin Spicer and Jermaine Smith, we needed someone who could bring some toughness and Marcus is a good banger," Jackson said.

Hayles is a 6-5 shooting guard out of LeFlore High in Mobile, where he helped the Rattlers to a 35-1 record his senior season. As a second team All-State selection after his senior season, he averaged 19 points and 12 rebounds per contest. His older brother, Daniel, plays at Auburn University.

Campbell, a 5-11 point guard, also played at LeFlore - which was ranked No. 2 in the country before falling in the Class 6A state championship game in March. He averaged 13 points and 10 assists per game for the Rattlers and was a McDonald's All-American nominee.

"The kids from Mobile come from a strong program," Jackson said. "Campbell is one of the top point guards in Alabama. He's quick and sees the floor well. With his quickness and toughness, he can be an asset to the program right away.

"Andrew is a strong wing player who can play the (shooting guard) and (small forward) spots with his effort and intensity. He's also a good rebounder from his position."