Rodriguez signs with Brewton-Parker College

When Evans basketball coach Kevin Kenny called for Dereck Rodriguez this season, the senior knew what he was entering the game to do.

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Shoot the ball.

"That was my role. He wanted me to go in there and shoot," Rodriguez said. "Actually, he would get mad at me if I didn't shoot."

Rodriguez showed off his long-range ability during a showcase at Brewton-Parker College and earned a scholarship to play for the school. Greenbrier's Kevin Nelson joined Rodriguez in signing with the school last week. Both attended the showcase, which included various drills and live games.

The pair, who have played on the same travel team since they were freshman, plan to room together.

"At least I know somebody when I'm going up there," Nelson said. "I won't have to worry about having a roommate I don't know."

Rodriguez said he had also been looking at playing for Aiken Tech. He had also visited Francis Marion with Evans teammate Anthony Williams, but said that was more workout than tryout.

The showcase at Brewton-Parker and subsequent scholarship offer sold him on the school.

"They showed me around," Rodriguez said. "The court was really nice. The coach was really nice."

And Rodriguez said his shot was on during the tryout.

During Evans' season, Rodriguez was called on during the fourth quarter with the Knights down and looking for quick points. Every time he got loose in the corner, Knights fans knew what to expect.

Opponents also became wise and started devoting extra attention to Rodriguez when he entered to try and spur comebacks.

"Some games I got them. Some days they would try to double team me and stuff," Rodriguez said. "Everybody knew I was a shooter."

Brewton-Parker coach John D. Jones said Rodriguez's playing time would depend on what Rodriguez shows as a freshman, and would continue to be used as a shooter.