SAULT STE. MARIE, Ont. - The Algoma University Thunderbirds are pleased to announce that guard Sammy Mohamed from Toronto has committed to join the Men's Thunderbird basketball program, beginning in September 2012.

The 6-foot-0, 170-pound guard played high school basketball for the Blessed Mother Teresa Catholic Secondary School Crusaders, where he averaged 18 points, 8 assists, 4 rebounds and 2 steals a game.

With Mohamed at guard, the Crusaders took gold in the Toronto District Catholic Athletic Association Championship in 2010, and also won silver in both 2011 and 2012.

Mohamed was a Battle of the Boards all-star in 2011 and 2012, and a member of the 25 point club from 2008 to 2012.

Mother Teresa Head Basketball Coach Richard Gallacher offered praise of Mohamed's work ethic: "Sammy is one of the hardest working players I have coached," he said. "Sammy is going to contribute to the Algoma University program on and off the floor in a positive manner and we will be following his progress and wishing him the best of luck."

Mohamed is coming to Algoma University with high expectations, and joining a team that is building on a successful 2011-2012 campaign.

Head Coach Thomas Cory sees no reason why he shouldn't be able to meet and even exceed those expectations.

"Sammy is a talented player that will continue to improve here at Algoma. He is going to have an immediate impact on our program."

Sammy himself is looking forward to his time here at Algoma University, and apart from basketball, is excited about his opportunity to pursue his interest in Business.

"I took a trip to Algoma and I liked everything about it, from my future teammates to the George Leach Centre. I like the atmosphere of the small university. The teacher to student ratio is something I believe will benefit my academics as I pursue my university degree."

Speaking of playing for the Thunderbirds, Mohamed stated: "I am very excited to play for coach Cory and I plan to contribute to the winning tradition that he has started...I feel like I'll be able to grow as both a student and a player here at Algoma University."

Source: Algoma University