Thursday, May 24, was an extra special day for one Crenshaw Christian Academy senior.

Not only was Michael Kilpatrick graduating from high school that evening, but he was also signing a basketball scholarship to Belmont Abbey in North Carolina.

Kilpatrick was the 2006-2007 AISA All-Star for the CCA Cougars, and he led the team in assists and in scoring.

Boys' Varsity Head Basketball coach Michael Malpass said that he had enjoyed coaching the senior during this past season.

&#8220Mike's potential is unlimited if he commits the time to constantly improving his academics and his basketball skills,” Malpass said.

Belmont Abbey's Assistant Varsity and Head J.V. coach Jason Williams echoed Malpass's sentiments.

&#8220We are excited about Mike's athleticism and his work ethics,” Williams said. &#8220He will be a nice fit for our program at Belmont Abbey.”

Kilpatrick had college offers not only from Belmont Abbey, but also from Guilford College in N.C., Huntington College in Montgomery, and he was offered a tryout at Lurleen B. Wallace Community College at the Andalusia campus.

Belmont Abbey is a Division 2 school.

&#8220First of all, I would like to thank the most important person in my life, God,” Kilpatrick said. &#8220Without Him, none of this would have been possible, and I wouldn't be who I am today if it was not for Him.”

Kilpatrick also thanked his parents, Michael and Lisa Kilpatrick, for supporting and for teaching him the life lessons that would make him a better person.

&#8220I am very blessed to have such wonderful parents who support and take care of me in every way,” he added.

He also expressed appreciation to Coach Malpass.

&#8220He is more than just a coach to me,” Kilpatrick said. &#8220He is a very good friend, teacher and leader.”

Kilpatrick's parents were all smiles during his scholarship signing.

&#8220We want Michael to know how proud we are of him and how much we love him,” Lisa Kilpatrick said. &#8220He never gave up believing in his dream. I have told him to remember Psalm 32, verse 8, when the Lord says, ‘I will guide you along the best pathway for your lifeŠI will advise you and watch over you.' These are our thoughts and wishes for Michael.”

Also on hand for the scholarship signing were Kilpatrick's family and relatives, some from as far away as New Jersey.

&#8220We are very proud of Mike, and we wish him the best of luck,” Kim Young of New Jersey said. Young is Kilpatrick's aunt.

Lois Young, Kilpatrick's grandmother from New Jersey, was &#8220extremely proud” of her grandson.

&#8220I wouldn't have missed this for anything,” she said, smiling.