Nov. 10, 2010
FAIRFAX, Va. - George Mason head men's basketball coach Jim Larranaga is pleased to announce the signing of two student-athletes, Corey Edwards and Vaughn Gray, to National Letters of Intent. Edwards, a 5'11" guard from Middle Village, N.Y./Christ the King, and Gray, a 6'5" forward from Elmwood Park, N.J./St. Benedict's Prep, will join the Patriots for the 2011-12 season.
Edwards is a three-year starter at Christ the King, the same high school as current Mason junior Ryan Pearson. Edwards, ranked the 56th-best point guard prospect in the nation by ESPN, averaged better than 10 points and six assists per game his junior season while also contributing 53 rebounds.
"Corey Edwards is the kind of leader we have been searching for," Larranaga said. "He really knows how to run a team and has done it at one of the best high school programs in the country in Christ the King. Corey is a pass-first point guard who helps everyone around him play better. He sees the floor exceptionally well and is an excellent passer. He also can defend quick point guards and put a lot of pressure on the other team's ball handler.
"His high school coach, Joe Arbitello, raves about Corey as his coach on the floor. We expect him to do the same for George Mason. I recruited Corey's dad - Dave Edwards more than 20 years ago but lost him to Georgetown. Now I am really looking forward to the opportunity to coach his son."
"Corey's best asset is his knowledge of the game," said Arbitello. "He comes from a long line of great ball players. He is a throwback guard who passes first and is a great defender. He is a true leader and a real good student."
Gray is in his first season at St. Benedict's Prep under head coach Roshown McLeod after playing three seasons at Don Bosco Preparatory High School in Ramsey, N.J. While with the Ironmen, Gray averaged 21.4 points, six rebounds and more than three assists per contest during his junior season. He is ranked the 53rd-best small forward prospect according to ESPN.com.
"Vaughn Gray has all the qualities to be an outstanding wing in our program - he has size, speed, strength and skill and is an outstanding defender," said Larranaga. "With the upcoming graduation of Cam Long and Isaiah Tate, Vaughn helps fill a void left by their departure. Vaughn plays at one of the most prestigious high school programs in the country.
"He is being tutored by his coach, Roshown McLeod, former Duke standout and NBA player. Vaughn has really challenged himself in high school and that will prepare him well for the tough competition he will face in the CAA."
"Vaughn is a tough defender with great size for his position," said McLeod. "As he becomes a better shooter, he will fall into what George Mason has had over the years."
"We feel very fortunate to add to outstanding student/athletes to our program," Larranaga added. "Both young men are winners - on and off the court."
