Echoing the sentiments of Monday's press conference at Word of God, NC State recruit and MOPY winner made it official at Sammy's Tap & Grill today

Tuesday May 4, 2010

There was a standing room only crowd to see Word of God forward CJ Leslie sign his national Letter of Intent for NC State.  The signing marks the highest ranked player to commit to NC State in the Sidney Lowe era, according to Scout.com's rankings.  Leslie is rated as the eleventh best prospect in the country by the site.  Current Cleveland Caviler and former Pack player JJ Hickson finished his high school career rated number 15 player in the nation by Scout.com.  On Monday Leslie acknowledged that it was Lowe's NBA experience that helped sway his decision, picking the Pack over the likes of Connecticut and Kentucky.

Leslie also made it clear that his mother, Lisa Leslie, was the best recruiter for NC State.  A lifelong Pack fan, Lisa Leslie preferred her "baby" stay close to home and play for her favorite team.  Like any good parents, Calvin Sr. and Lisa Leslie gave Calvin Jr. his space, as he kept the basketball world waiting on his decision.  Ultimately, mom got her wish when her 6'8" "baby" chose red and white.  Prominent players Ryan Harrow and Lorenzo Brown will join CJ Leslie in the Pack's recruiting class.  The class is ranked 5th in the nation by the afore mentioned scout.com.  Leslie said on Monday "I think we can win the ACC."  It is that confidence and talent to match that has Wolfpack Nation energized.  Those energized fans showed Leslie much love today as he made it official.  Leslie reciprocated the love for the fans, in a joyous beginning to a career in which both sides will end on the same note.

Kerry Smith

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