On May 7th Knightdale forward Dijon Manns signed a NCAA Letter of Intent to play at North Carolina Central University, to play for first year head coach LeVelle Moton. 

Knightdale head basketball coach, Battle Watkins, told Trianglehoops.net that Dijon is on of only three players in the program's history to play varsity all four years of their career.  That career for Dijon includes 73 wins, a Greater Neuse regular season and conference tournament championship, and three appearances in the state playoff (08-09 sectional finalists).  The 07-08 all conference player emased over 600 points and 250 rebounds in his career and shot nearly 70% from the free throw line. 

Watkins says Manns "has potential to be effective at NC Central using his size inside around the basket as well as his soft touch jumpshot for a big man."  Adding "he can be as successful as he wants to be depending on how hard he works, Dijon can help build something there like he has here. I think he is looking forward to that challenge.

NC Central coach LeVelle Moton is just as optimistic about the arrival of his latest big, telling Trianglehoops.net "Dijon’s skill set is reminiscent to Sean May’s which is very rare in a big man. Key factors that you look for in big are: hands, feet, and  skills.  Dijon possesses all three."  Moton is just as excited to be getting a quality person as well.  The Eagle coach pointed out that Manns' father Al and mother Teresa did a great job raising their son.  Moton has high hopes for the soon to be Knightdale graduate, telling us "he has been a four year varsity letterman and comes from a great program with a winning tradition with Battle Watkins. We certainly feel that he will contribute and have an immediate impact on our program."

Dijon should have an impact right away on the offensive end with the nice mid-range game he has.  Watkins has always said that he is better with his back to the basket than he gets credit for too.  Manns will also become a better defender under the guide of Moton, who always stresses D.  This is a great addition to the Eagle program as they look make the transition to the MEAC and DI.